Linda Joan Gustafson

Linda Joan Gustafson passed away on Oct. 7, 2025, at the age of 72.
She was born an adventurer with a naturally sweet and kind soul, a heart of gold, a big smile for everyone she met, and was always a joy to be around.
She loved being free to travel. After graduating from college, she traveled around the world for 18 months with a friend. Her stories and pictures show how much she enjoyed that lifestyle: traveling with a backpack, no real plan, and flying by the seat of her pants and loving every minute. She loved being outdoors. She biked, hiked, and explored all over the world.
Linda retired after a 30-year career with the US Postal Service in Fairbanks, Alaska.
In 2010, Linda and Roxy made the move to Mesa, Arizona. Golf became her avid passion. She loved golfing in the three leagues she joined and didn't pass up many opportunities to play with her friends and family.
Linda was diagnosed with stage 4 peritoneal cancer early in March 2025. Throughout all the treatments, procedures, and hospital stays, she remained positive. She endured with dignity and grace. She accepted her situation and believed in a greater power. She lived her life with no regrets.
We are all devastated by this huge loss, and she will be forever missed. She was preceded in death by her mom, Rose Gustafson; and dad, Paul Gustafson. She missed them deeply every single day since then.
She will always be remembered with much love by her heartbroken partner, Roxanne Port; sisters, Karen Crossley (Alan) and Julie Gustafson (Mac McCrae); nephews, Samuel Crossley (Rachel, son Felix) and Caleb Crossley (Rosie); niece, Hannah Crossley (son Uriah). There's a long list of deeply saddened extended family.
She was also greatly loved and will be greatly missed by the many friends she's made. We can all find solace in knowing she's been reunited with family and friends who have passed before. What a joyous reunion it must have been for them all.
A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Nov, 17, at Usery Mountain Regional Park, one of Linda's favorite places to hike. Linda suggested any memorial donations, you might consider Usery Mountain Regional Park, 3939 Usery Pass Road, Mesa, AZ 85207.
Condolences can be sent to Roxy Port, 6001 E Southern Ave #13, Mesa, AZ 85206.