Barbara S. Gustafson

1920 - 2014

Barbara Sage Gustafson, 93, died peacefully on June 10, 2014 at her home in Ormond Beach, Florida. Born December 23, 1920 she was the oldest of three daughters of the late Preston Rufus Sage and Priscilla Newcomb Sage. Barbara and her two sisters Priscilla "Pip" Sage Bartlett and Elizabeth "Betty" Sage Trombly spent their childhood in Hartford, Connecticut until Barbara met and married her high school sweetheart from Buckley High School, Arthur "Art" M. Gustafson. Art and Barbara moved early in her marriage to Manchester, Connecticut where they raised three children: Joanne Gustafson Richard, Barbara "Babs" Gustafson Canning and Paul Gustafson. Barbara worked for many years for an insurance agency in Manchester, was an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, an avid reader and an accomplished knitter making blankets, mittens, scarfs, hats and other items for family members and the poor. After raising her children she spent her summers at her cottage in Niantic and her winters by the ocean in Ormond Beach, Florida. Barbara was never without a smile on her face or happiness in her heart. She was a master cook, accomplished bridge player and a doting grandmother. She was a woman of strong faith and was active in her church. Barbara was a member of the greatest generation. She fought no battles but was a strong woman who quietly made a difference in the lives of those she touched. Barbara outlived many of her friends but her life will be remembered and celebrated by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who fondly referred to her as "Grandma Gus". Barbara is predeceased by her parents and siblings; Arthur Gustafson, her husband of more than 50 years; Paul Gustafson, her son and Robert Gustafson, her grandson. She is survived by her sister-in-law Gloria Gustafson Wilkinson, two daughters, Joanne and Barbara, daughter-in-law, Carol Gustafson, several nieces and nephews, 5 Grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held in the fall in Ormond Beach, Florida. She will be buried with a private service next to her husband, Arthur, in Cromwell, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Riverview United Methodist Church, 2253 John Anderson Drive Ormond Beach, FL 32176 which meant so much to Barbara. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.dalewoodwardfuneralhomes.com.