Kendall Evert Gustafson

Kendall Evert Gustafson, born to Virginia McKittrick Gustafson and Evert Gustafson on May 31, 1944, in Eugene, Oregon, passed away at his home in Gresham, Oregon, on September 22, 2023. Kendall's early years were spent in Montana, where he lived in Conrad, Miles City, and Glasgow, before graduating from Glasgow High School in 1962. That fall, he joined the Army Reserve, where he gained the trust of the top brass in Fort Ord, California with his perfect 100 word per minute typing and crack wit personality. In September of 1963, he pursued higher education at Northwest Christian College in Eugene, setting the stage for a life of continuous learning and engagement.

Kendall's childhood in Miles City was marked by adventures in the small town and an early love of literature, particularly Dr. Doolittle, sparking a lifelong love for animals. This passion manifested in a menagerie of pets throughout his life, from white rats and tropical fish to parakeets, cockatiels, an iguana, cats, and a dog. His musical journey began at six when his parents introduced him to the piano, fostering a love for classical music and improvisation that would last a lifetime.

The 1960s in Eugene were a formative time for Kendall, where he developed lifelong friendships, worked as a car salesman and glass installer, and eventually found his way into the Missouri Pacific Texas Pacific Railroad's off-line traffic office. His career path led him to become the Chief Clerk in the Milwaukee Railroad's Eugene office, and by 1971, he was promoted to the sales office in Portland. Employing his congenial personality and sales acumen, he exceeded his sales quota by a factor of three. A trailblazer and an incredibly capable person, he found his sexual orientation limited his ability to advance his corporate career and achieve fair compensation.

Portland became Kendall's home for 50 years, a place he cherished deeply. His most fulfilling work was with the City of Portland Water Bureau, where he started in the Customer Service Group before being promoted to the Operations Water Quality Group. His role allowed him to support a diverse team, never wanting to retire due to his passion for the job and the impact he could make.

Kendall's life was characterized by curiosity, enthusiasm, and a generous spirit. He endeavored to make the world a better place every day, a mission that continued even as his health declined, surrounded by family and friends.

He leaves behind sisters: Kayla, Kena, and Keatha, brothers: Kurt, and Kim, nephews, nieces, cousins, and a large close circle of friends. We celebrate Kendall's life and legacy-a testament to a life lived with passion, purpose, and a profound impact on those fortunate enough to have known him.