Jack M. Gustafson

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Ballard High School

Jack Gustafson Obituary

Jack M. GUSTAFSON Age 74, passed away on August 18, 2006 at his home in Denver after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Shirley, and his three children: Jannie Des Rosiers-Berman (Larry) CT; Jack Gustafson, Jr., (Betsy) NC; and Jeffrey W. Gustafson, Denver. Also survived by 7 grandchildren: Anders, Scotty and Alex Gustafson; Geoffrey and Leanne Des Rosiers and Matthew and Marc Berman, a sister, Joanne LaVielle, Seattle, WA; brother, Jerry Gustafson of Denver. Jack was born and raised in Seattle where he graduated from Ballard High School and the University of Washington. From the age of 13, he played clarinet and saxophone and was a member of a band called the "Serenades". The popular band played Jack's favorite "Big Band" sound all over Seattle. In his tour of duty with the Army he played in the Army Band and was often asked to play with Stan Kenton, Ella Fitzgerald and others. Jack moved his family to Denver in 1971 and established Gustafson Heating and AC; he was a 3rd generation sheet metal man. In the early 1990's, Jack and Teresa Cox became partners and she and the staff will continue to maintain the integrity of Gustafson Heating. A natural athlete all his life, he was a great golfer. He was a member of the University Hills Rotary, and the Senior Citizens Golf Association and was a loyal supporter of Warren Village and Meals-on-Wheels. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 25, 12:00 p.m. at Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, 3101 S. Wadsworth Blvd. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to The Children's Hospital Foundation, attn: Marylou Houston, 1245 E. Colfax Avenue, Suite 400, Denver, CO 80218.

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Published by The Seattle Times on Aug. 23, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Jack Gustafson

5 Entries

Joanne LaVielle

August 23, 2006

Dear Shirley,

I am so thankful that I had the time and the opportunity to get closer to Jack during mom and dads last years. I will always cherish and remember these times.

I am also very thankful that Jack and I were able to express our mutual respect, love and admiration we felt for one another. Being able to express this has meant the world to me.

I am very appreciative for the support you and Jack gave me and my children through the years and I along with the children, look forward to seeing you when you visit in Seattle. It is very important to all of us that we always maintain a connection. Shirley, you are now and always will be a part of our family.

My thoughts and prayers are with you always.

Love Joanne~

Brian Lavielle

August 23, 2006

To Shirley & Family When I heard of Jacks passing It was with deep sadness. On one hand I envisioned Jack with such invincibility and vigor that would always be there. Through the years I mostly new of uncle Jacks Buisness persona and his committment to his Mom & Dad, Which we all held in high esteem. In my limited observation I saw jack as a steady rudder on a ship sailing smoothly maintaining a course for all to follow. I thought how fortunate all of you must have felt to be guided by his loving devotion and loyal committment to all of you. I am reminded of the many kindnesses that you Shirley and Jack provided to all of us during our youth, which I am truly grateful for. I would be amiss if I failed to contemplate what the future holds for I am reminded of a comforting thought found in the Bible; They will certainly build houses and have occupancy...They will not build and someone else have accupancy; Isa.65:21-23 In harmony with this future building on a paradise earth, all those that have passed away will have the opportunity to share and contribute their skills to this rebuilding work, If it is Gods will that these homes have air conditioning then I am sure Jack will be there to lead the way. In closing I hope that you will find comfort and solace in knowing that God cares for all of you Rev 21:3,4 Love Brian

MICHELLE LAVIELLE

August 23, 2006

DEAREST AUNT SHIRLEY, MY COUSINS JANNIE, JACK JR. AND JEFF, MY THOUGHTS & PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. UNCLE JACK WAS A GOOD PERSON, VERY CARING AND GAVE SO MUCH KINDNESS TO OUR FAMILY. I HAVE WONDERFUL MEMORIES ALL THROUGH THE YR.S, THEY WILL FOREVER BE IN MY HEART. UNCLE JACK WASN'T FEELING WELL, YET HE STILL HAD THE STRENGH TO COME IN VISIT GRANDPARENTS AND ALWAYS THERE FOR THEM IN TIME IN NEED. I WAS BLESSED TO SPEND THE TIME AND HAVE GOOD TALK WITH UNCLE JACK. HE TOUCHED ALOT OF LIVES, OUR LOVED ONES WILL ALWAYS BE NEAR IN SPIRIT. MAY THE LOVE OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS BRING YOU COMFORT. I LOVE YOU UNCLE JACK AND WILL BE MISSED. LOVE YOU ALL MICHELLE

Beverly Dorfler

August 22, 2006

Dearest Aunt Shirley and family:

I was so glad to have spent time with all of you last year at Grandma & Grandpa's house. I would have never known that Uncle Jack was ill, as he seemed so strong and determined. His inner strength shown through. We will miss him very much, as I always looked forward to your visits to Seattle, when we could see the both of you.

I was blessed to have a wonderful uncle who gave so much of himself and cared for our family in many times of need.

We are thinking of all of you this day and everyday and know how blessed all of you close to him were to have Uncle Jack in your lives.

Love to All!

Beverly (LaVielle) Dorfler

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