Richard Melville "Rich" Gustafson

Richard "Rich" Melville Gustafson passed away unexpectedly on June 5, 2025, while cutting wood in the beautiful Selway area of Idaho County.

Rich was born on September 26, 1945, in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Living there until age 11 when he moved to Boise, Idaho. The rest of his growing up years were spent in Boise where he met his lifelong friends Larry Morris and Ron Dehlin. He completed his college education at Boise State University. He was first married to Barbara "Bobby" (nee Lobnitz) with whom he shared two sons, Troy and Ryan. After the death of his first wife, after swearing never to get married again, he met and eventually married Barb. He promised her a rollercoaster ride and what a ride it has been.

After Barb retired, they found their way North Central Idaho where they had previously spent many hours fishing for steelhead on the Clearwater. They eventually made their forever home in Syringa, Idaho.

Rich's warm personality made him a natural salesman. He found success working as a fine men's clothing buyer for the Bon Marche', and managed Alexander's stores. Eventually starting his own high end clothing store, A.R. Tripps. Always moving forward, Rich switched gears and cofounded a telecommunication company. Which then led to running his own remodeling company.

His greatest joy came from fishing the Clearwater for steelhead, crappie fishing in Owyhee, goose hunting in Marsing, and most especially his annual camping trips to Deadwood Reservoir. Where he cooked enormous meals and told us stories around the campfires. Creating sooo many cherished memories with his family and friends, but especially enjoyed the time he spent with his grandsons Ronin and Talon.

Rich is survived and missed by his loving wife of 29 years Barb; and his children, Ryan (Desi), and Troy, as well as his stepdaughters Sarah (James) and Megan (Gill), and his grandchildren. Rich was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Mabel, his brother Lloyd, and his loving wife Bobby.

Rich was a doer and always had a project. He worked hard on his property until his passing. He was generous with his time and resources always willing to lend a helping hand. He made friends wherever he went, especially the local community get-togethers. He truly valued the time he spent with the veterans met at the "Barn".

A heartfelt thank you goes to the emergency responders Lowell QRU, Kooskia EMTs and Idaho County Sheriff's Office for their compassion and kindness.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Rich's favorite cause, Send-A-Vet Foundation. (email gus@Strongcore.net if you need directions for donations or travel)