Eric John Gaustad

Eric John Gaustad

June 18, 1939 - December 2, 2024

Eric John Gaustad of Lake Berryessa, Napa County, formerly of El Cerrito, CA, died on December 2, 2024. He was born in Berkeley, CA on June 18, 1939, to Martyne and Florence Gaustad, both deceased. Siblings Lawrence (Larry), and Noel preceded and Vincent succeeded him in death, and Keith, Gregory and Marta Baca survive him. He graduated from Berkeley High School and California State University-Hayward, earning a bachelor's degree in business. Eric married (Frances) Joan Mayfield of Ukiah in 1975, and were married until her passing in 2001.

Eric worked in the printing industry, starting out in the printing department of the University of California. He worked as an executive for large printing firms in the bay area - Pacific Rota Printing in Berkely and finally California Printing Company as COO in San Francisco. In 1986, Eric went into business for himself, opening up a small "quick print" business, Sir Speedy. He and Joan owned and operated Sir Speedy until her death and his retirement in 2011.

Eric and Joan bought a weekend house at Lake Berryessa in 1981. This was their home-away- from-home. They enjoyed water skiing, fishing and growing gardens. Eric loved to host/teach and he taught many nieces, nephews, relatives and others how to ski and enjoy the lake. When he slowed down a bit, he enjoyed trolling for trout. He would get out the depth finder and fishing poles and have fresh trout for dinner. The weather at the lake was perfect for growing things and that became his passion. He had a veritable Garden of Eden with everything from dwarf citrus, grapes and even a fig tree. He was best known for his tomatoes. Some of his tomato plants would grow up to eight feet tall! He would share the bounty with neighbors, friends and family. Eric and Joan enjoyed frequent vacationing in Mexico.

Eric is survived by his daughter, Meghan Gaustad-Martinez (Jesus "Casper"), grandchildren Eric and Abigail Martinez, sister Marta Baca (Nabor) and brother Keith Gaustad, both of Berkeley, CA, and Greg (Marti) Gaustad of San Diego, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.