print article Print     e-mail obituary E-mail
Published July 28, 2011, 04:19 PM

Robert Edward Gustafson

Robert Edward Gustafson, age 81, passed away on Wednesday, July 27, 2011, at Hospice Home of Hope in Fond du Lac, Wis.

Robert Edward Gustafson, age 81, passed away on Wednesday, July 27, 2011, at Hospice Home of Hope in Fond du Lac, Wis.

Robert was born March 2, 1930, in Park Falls, Wis., the son of Edward and Loa (Randall) Gustafson. Following his graduation from high school in Superior in 1948, Bob attended UW-Superior, graduating in 1952. Robert was a master sergeant in communications with the Wisconsin National Guard for ten years. On Dec. 27, 1952, he married Mary Riedasch in Superior. Bob was employed with the Maple School District as a choir director for 10 years, and taught band to the middle school and students at Northwestern High School for 36 years. Bob was honored by the school district as teacher of the year, and he retired in 1988. He spent many hours helping Mary decorate for the annual Lake Nebagamon Fire Department Ball. Following his retirement, Bob and Mary enjoyed traveling west with family and wintering in Mesa Ariz. for 19 years. In 2003, they were called to the Waupun area to help care for their grandson with leukemia, now in remission. Bob was interested in auto mechanics, woodworking, and remodeling.

Robert is survived by Mary, his wife of 58 years; five children, Daniel (Wendy) Gustafson, Rochester; Minn., James (Mimi) Gustafson, San Macos, Calif., Jean Leystra, Randolph, Wis.; Dana Regan, Kansas City, Mo.; Margaret Dexter, Pekin, Ill.; 12 grandchildren; Ryan (Cassie) Gustafson, Eric Gustafson, Tyson (Stacy) Gustafson, Tymon and Talia Gustafson, Kellyn and Kye Leystra, Joseph and Thomas Regan, Philip, Nathaniel, and Ellen Dexter; three great-grandchildren, two brothers, Gene Gustafson and James Gustafson, both of Phoenix, Ariz.; a sister, Jane West, Alexandria, Va.; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Loa of East End Superior, and an infant grandson.

Honoring Robert’s wishes, there will be no services. A private family inurnment will be in the Lake Nebagamon Cemetery.

Kohls Community Funeral Home, Waupun, is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be sent from www.kohlsfh.com

Tags:

Sign the guestbook (5 comments)

Jean W.
08/01/2011 4:58 PM

I am so sad to hear of Mr. G's passing. He was the absolute BEST!! as a teacher and a man. My sincerest sympathy to the family. The world was so much better for having him in it! Jean Wahlquist Ashland, WI

Report a Violation

L B.
07/31/2011 12:35 PM

My sympathies to the 'G' family. I have many good memories of playing trumpet in band and Mr. G helped make those possible. Bob had a lot of patience with us ... maybe too many :) I often pass by the G home along CTH B in Lk Nebagamon and will always remember it as the G home. Lance Burger, class of 1979. PS I still recall the rare moment I caught him alone in a music room jamming on a baritone saxophone. Boy, could he play.

Report a Violation

barb f.
Brule, WI     07/29/2011 11:07 AM

To the family of "Mr. G". I am saddened to hear of his passing. When he came to Maple Corner he opened up a world of music for many of us. He was strict but had a kind heart. Practices were after school and he would give me a ride home when I didn't have one. He was always encouraging, all the way through high school and that meant the world to me. Thank you, Mr. G!! Barb (Saari) Follis Class of 1975

Report a Violation

Comments posted on this page do not reflect opinions of Forum Communications Company. Forum Communications Company does not endorse and is not responsible for any statement, opinion, advice given or made. All replies are subject to approval and must follow Forum Communications Company guidelines concerning statements of libel, personal attacks or defamation of character. Replies in the "Talk About It" section that criticize a person by name may not be posted, unless that person is openly involved in a public issue. Comments written in all capital letters or bold print will not be considered for inclusion in the forum.

Terms & Conditions