Donald R. Gustafson

Donald R. Gustafson, age 85, passed away on January 26, 2015 after a prolonged battle with emphysema. He was born on April 3, 1929 in Sycamore, Illinois where he lived until graduating from High School. After high school, he attended Northern Illinois University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Education and later, was awarded a Master's Degree in Administration. Upon graduation he married Barbara Gardner on June 10, 1951. After being married just a few months, he was inducted into the U.S. Army where he served two years in Korea. Upon his return from the service he began his teaching career in Sycamore, moving a year later to Elgin, IL where he taught for 38 years until retiring in 1989. In 1970 Don and Barb purchased property in Northern WI and eventually built a home, spending many happy times there with family and friends. In 1995, Don and Barb decided to head south during the winters where they took up residence at Highlands Ridge in Avon Park, Florida. They spent the next 19 years traveling between their two homes enjoying life to the fullest no matter where they were. Don will always be remembered as a loving husband, caring father and grandfather, talented teacher and coach, golfer extraordinaire, sports enthusiast in general, and most profoundly for his sense of humor and fun loving demeanor. Don is survived by his wife, Barbara; son Jeffrey Gustafson (Linda), Savage, MN; daughter, Wendy Westadt (Curt), Mequon, WI; daughter, Lori Allen (Mark), Chalfont, PA; five grandchildren, Kelsey Gustafson, Bekka Gustafson, Erik Westadt, Louis Spinker and Anna Spinker; and 1 great grandchild, Tyler with a second great grandchild expected momentarily; and finally, his beloved Schnauzer, Laci. A celebration of his life will be held in April on his 86th birthday. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Humane Society of Highlands County (www.humanesocietyofhighlandscounty.com) Arrangements entrusted to: Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home (863) 385-0125 Online condolences may be left at: www.stephensonnelsonfh.com