Robert Edward Gustafson

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

Robert was born on March 2, 1930 in Park Falls, WI, the son of Edward and Loa (Randall) Gustafson. Following his graduation from Superior High School 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 December 27, 1952 he married Mary Riedasch in Superior, WI. Bob was employed with the Maple School District as a choir director for ten 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, AZ for nineteen 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 fifty-eight years; five children, Daniel (Wendy) Gustafson, Rochester; MN, James (Mimi) Gustafson, San Macos, CA, Jean Leystra, Randolph, WI; Dana Regan, Kansas City, MO; Margaret Dexter, Pekin, IL; twelve 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, AZ; a sister, Jane West, Alexandria, Virginia; 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.