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BORN
1952
DIED
2020
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Richard Gustafson Obituary
Hyde Park - Richard J. Gustafson, 68, of Hyde Park passed away peacefully at Vassar Brothers Hospital on Sunday, September 27, 2020.
Rich was born in Brooklyn on May 11, 1952 to the late John and Elizabeth (nee Plant) Gustafson. He was raised in Brooklyn and Long Island and moved to the Hudson Valley in the 1970s. Rich became a police officer in 1975 and proudly served with the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department, obtaining the rank of Sergeant.
Rich married Linda Paolino on September 13, 1980 at St. Denis Church in Hopewell Junction. Rich and Linda just celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. Together they raised four boys and were blessed to see two grandchildren. Rich was known for his jovial and warm, loving personality. He enjoyed spending time with his family and having a nice chat over a cup of coffee with everyone.
Rich was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Gary. Additionally, he was predeceased by his parents-in-law, Michael and Janet Paolino, and sisters-in-law, Diane and Michelle.
Surviving are his beloved wife, Linda, and their four children and spouses, Jason Gustafson and Jennifer Longstreet, Justin Gustafson and Andrew Serna, Matthew and Anna (nee Laferriere) Gustafson, and Joshua at home, and twin grandchildren, Emily and Dylan Gustafson. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
The family will hold a private celebration of Rich's life at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Inc., Rte. 9, Hyde Park. Condolences may be made to the family at www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
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Sponsored by Sweet's Funeral Home.
Robert S Westfall
November 8, 2020
He was my Sergeant for a brief time period during my time with TPPD. I also worked with him as South Hills Mall security, prior to my law enforcement career beginning. Always treated me like one of the guys. He will be missed.
Dana Biagetti
September 29, 2020
Linda, we are so sorry for your loss. Rich was a great guy and will be greatly missed.
Sincerely,
Lou and Dana Biagetti
Vincent Osoba
September 29, 2020
Deeply saddened to hear of Gus's passing. Great co-worker ,boss and friend. RIP brother. My condolences to Linda and family.
Gary Corbett
September 29, 2020
I am saddened by the passing of Rich. We went to the police academy together and often interacted in our careers. A great guy gone too soon. Rest In Peace Rich.
Greg Harris
September 29, 2020
I was a rookie with Gus on the Town PD in 1975. I left in 1976 to go to law school but fondly remember Gus as a warm and friendly guy. We had quite an adventure during a DWI arrest on route 9 that I often recall. RIP Brother. Greg Harris
Jim Korosi
September 28, 2020
So sorry to hear this sad news about a friend Richard Gus prayers to his family and loved ones. Thank you Gus for being one of my Speakers at my Wedding my wife Paula and I will never forget you the smile you always had o your face I was just thinking about you a few weeks ago. May you RIP my friend and brother in blue.
Bob McCready
September 28, 2020
Mine and my families heartfelt condolences to Gus's family and loved ones. Gus was a great cop, a great family man, and just a great overall person. I had the privilege to work with him and for him, and most of all I had the privilege to call him a friend. RIP Sarge.
Jack Herring
September 28, 2020
Great guy. We met in the Police Academy in '75. Good Cop, good family man, good person. Rest in Peace my friend.
Ron and Didi Spero
September 28, 2020
Sending Our heartfelt sympathies... affectionately known to us as ‘Gus’ ...he was a wonderful guy and always had a warm smile to share. We have such fond memories of working with him at the TPPD. We know he will be deeply missed.
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