Edward Carl Gustafson

Edward C. Gustafson, 93, passed away peacefully in his home on July 22, 2024. He was born June 8, 1931, in Bessemer, MI, the son of Carl and Bernice (Delaski) Gustafson. He married Jean Elizabeth Lehnard on July 18,1953 at St. Agnes Church in Ashland, WI. Together they raised four children. Jean preceded him in death July 27, 2015.

Ed proudly served his country as a United States Marine from 1951 to 1954 when he was honorably discharged as a Staff Sargent. Ed returned to Wisconsin where he and Jean settled in West Allis. He started a 34-year career with Wisconsin Electric Power Company in 1954 as a junior forester. He was a service troubleman for 22 years then retired as a dispatcher in 1988. Ed and Jean enjoyed their retirement years wintering in Mesa, AZ with family and friends.

Ed was a craftsman and made beautiful things out of wood. His artistry was a hobby that brought joy to his life, immeasurable beauty to his home, and countless treasures to those he loved. In the last 5 years, when he lived in Hudson, WI, he took up carving. He enjoyed the company of the carving guys and practiced this craft up until the last week of his life. His creativity and sense of humor are evident in the puzzles, figurines, and toys he made throughout his life.

He is survived by his four children, Tom (Gail) Gustafson of Milwaukee, WI, Nancy (Mark) Frana of River Falls, WI, Don (Kim) Gustafson of New Lisbon, WI, and Gail Vuckovich (Robert Olthoff) of Chicago, IL; grandchildren, Kristin (Bill) Roll, Lauren (Brent) Loberg, Marcus (Amy) Frana, Ali (Saul) Smith, Carli Gustafson, Jake (Amanda) Gustafson, Eric (Joe) Sipe, Steve (Heather) Vuckovich, and Katherine Vuckovich; and 11 great-grandchildren with number 12 due in October. He is also survived by many nephews and nieces.

Ed’s family will hold a private service at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery located near Union Grove, WI. He will receive military funeral honors befitting his status as a veteran.

The family requests those who wish to express condolences to consider performing a random act of kindness or donating to their favorite charity in honor of our beloved father. He made the world better and would be pleased to know that we do our best to do the same.

Cremation Services Entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson.