Ronald E. Gustaf

1948 - 2022

Ronald E. Gustaf

February 6, 1948-February 19, 2022

Ronald E. Gustaf, 74, Monmouth, IL, passed away on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at his home from a rare neurological disease. His brain was donated to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for research. Funeral services are 2:30 PM Friday, February 25, 2022 at Van Hoe Funeral Home Ltd., East Moline. Burial will follow at Greenview Memorial Gardens, East Moline, where the VVA Post 299 will conduct military honors. Visitation is from 12:00 PM until service time. Memorials may be made to Quad City Honor Flight.

Ron was born on February 6, 1948 in Moline, the son of Joseph and Lucille (Keegan) Gustaf. He served in the US Army during the Vietnam War as a Scout Dog Handler. Ron married Lyn Sandy on June 3, 1972 in Green Rock, IL. He retired from John Deere Harvester in 1996. Ron learned about racing and engine building from his father. He started building engines in his garage and then, in 1987, he opened Gustaf Engine and Machine, Moline which sold high performance engines nationwide. He mentored many young men and novice racers over the years. In the '70s he raced motor-cross, winning the 1975 250cc A State Championship. He raced at several midwestern tracks and finished his career in 2009 in the late model division.

Survivors include his wife of nearly 50 years, Lyn, children; Todd Malmstrom, Moline, Eric Gustaf, Moline, Adam (Angela) Gustaf, Moline and Amy (Joe) Freitag, Monmouth, twelve grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and siblings; Dave Gustaf, Silvis, Linda (Craig) Dugan, Michigan, Joann Vervaecke, East Moline and Cindy Johnson, Silvis.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Danny, Steve and Joey.