Carl James Gustafson

Feb 7, 1937 – April 14, 2018

Born February 7, 1937, Carl grew up in a thriving post-WW II Vancouver where he attended Magee High School and UBC- graduating with a Bachelor of Education. Carl pursued his passion for sports throughout his younger years, including representing UBC in varsity rugby.

Carl met his future wife and partner of 55 years, Carol, while both were doing their teaching practicums in Gibsons, BC in 1961. They were married in 1963. The married couple then took what was intended to be a one year teaching contract in Kamloops in 1968. They fell in love with the town and have remained there for more than 50 years.

Carl spent his teaching career spreading his passion for history, geography, math and sport to hundreds of students until 1996, when he retired due to a stroke. Retirement did not stop Carl from enjoying life. He spent the following 22 years as an active man. He enjoyed yearly trips to Puerto Vallarta, volunteering with the Kamloops Heritage Railway, taking care of his gardens, walking at the TRU track, having coffee at A&W with “the guys” and supporting the Kamloops Blazers. Most importantly, Carl spent his time enjoying family - especially his grandchildren.

Carl will be forever in the hearts of Carol, his son Trent (Patricia), daughter Leslie Kossey (Scott) and the true joys of his life, his grandkids: Megan, Bennett, Jake and Myles. He also leaves behind cousins, as well nieces, nephews and friends both in Kamloops and other Canadian cities.

A celebration of Carl’s memorable 81 years will take place on Sunday, April 29 at 1pm at Bighorn Golf and Country Club (previously Sun Rivers Golf Course) 1000 Clubhouse Drive, Kamloops. Refreshments to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to be made in Carl’s memory to the Kamloops Chapter of KidSport, to help remove financial barriers that prevent some children from playing organized sports. www.Kidsport.ca/CarlGustafson.