Longtime Hugoton resident Alfred E. “Eric” Gustafson passed from this life Saturday, April 20, 2013 at his home in Hugoton surrounded by family. He was 76. [it-exchange-member-content membership_ids=”485,313″]
Born September 6, 1936 on his family farm on the Redline near Palco, he was the son of John and Ethel Gustafson.
Eric was welcomed to his heavenly home by his parents; brother Robert; and grandson Jacob Valek, as well as a host of other family and friends.
April 22, 1957, Eric and Freda Ann Ausbun were united in marriage and together they were blessed with and raised five children.
Eric earned his bachelor’s of science degree from Fort Hays State University in 1964. He taught junior high in Bogue for several years before earning his master’s from Fort Hays then becoming principal at Bogue High School. He spoke often and with great pride and fondness of his students and his time in education.
In 1976, Eric and Freda returned to the Moscow – Hugoton area where Eric embarked on a series of various jobs including farming, truck driving and many years as a service manager at Trentham Ford. Eric also served on the school board for Moscow school district. Following his retirement, Eric continued to stay busy and most recently enjoyed working as a truck driver for Kramer Farms.
A man of tremendous faith, Eric enjoyed a lifelong commitment to the Lord and his church. He was very active in his church and held a multitude of leadership positions and filled a number of diverse roles including succeeding his father as treasurer at the Redline Church of God. After returning to southwest Kansas, he continued to be an active member and leader of the Hugoton First Church of God.
In 2008, Mr. Gustafson was diagnosed with colon cancer and began his battle with the disease. Sustained by his faith, his fight was an inspiration to family, friends and any who met him. Eric continued his struggle with strength, courage, determination and unwavering faith. He passed away surrounded by the family he was so proud of and cherished so much.
Survivors include his wife Freda of the home; five children, Debra and husband Phil Wilson, David and wife Toya Gustafson, Resi and husband Bill Valek, Steven and wife Brandy Gustafson and Lisa and husband Matt Whitham; his 16 grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and sister Margaret Ninemire of La Junta, Co.
Funeral services are planned for 2:00 p.m. Thursday, April 25, 2013 at the First Church of God in Hugoton. The family hosted visitation Wednesday evening at the church. Interment will follow the funeral service and will be in the Hugoton Cemetery under the direction of Paul’s Funeral Home of Hugoton.
Memorial contributions may be made to the First Church of God’s Mission’s Board and mailed in care of Paul’s Funeral Home, PO Box 236, Hugoton, Ks 67951. [/it-exchange-member-content]