Raymond “Jerry” Jerald Gustafson, 73, Big Lake, MN passed away Monday, May 31, 2021. Jerry was born, July 30, 1947 to Raymond and Jewel (Smith) Gustafson, in Kenmare, ND. He was raised, attended school and started his family in North Dakota. Jerry was a proud Veteran of the U.S. Navy and was a man who loved his country. It is no mistake that he passed away on Memorial Day, our nation’s most honorable day celebrating those who sacrificed for America’s freedom.
Jerry loved God and his family above all. A devoted husband to Ella Marie, father to Jeff and Heidi and grandfather to Brittany, Tyler and Emilee, he was their #1 Fan in every endeavor. These included racing, fishing, band concerts, basketball and baseball/softball games and numerous trips to across the U.S. chasing wheelchair sports. Together, Jerry and Ella always enjoyed visiting and hearing updates about their family and friends. They love their family dearly, near and far. Jerry cherished time spent with his family at holidays, birthdays and family dinners which included gospel music, outbursts into song, lots of laughter and endless homemade desserts.
Jerry worked in a variety of occupations throughout his life including owning/managing two restaurants, traveling craft sales, and as manager at KFC, Stop N Go and Menards. He was an awesome “people person”, making him incredibly good at his professions. Jerry was a jack of all trades, master of management, with wisdom to spare.
Raymond “Jerry” Gustafson is survived by his wife of 51 years, Ella Marie (Pfeifer); son Jeff (Janelle) Gustafson, Big Lake, MN; daughter, Heidi Gustafson (Scott Rickford), Medina, MN; grandchildren, Brittany Gustafson (Ethan), Tyler Gustafson and Emilee Gustafson; and grand-dogs, Wilson and Murphy; Sister: Melanie (Dennis) Smith; Brother: James Gustafson; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Jewel; sister, Caryn and David Peterson; father and mother-in-law, Hilbert and Gladys Pfeifer.
With a strong foundation in his Christian faith, Jerry was a rock to his family. As Jesus is a shepherd to his flock, Jerry was the leader, caretaker, protector and friend to his.
Committal Service and Burial: Wednesday, June 9, 2021 at 11:00am North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan, ND
Memorials in honor of Jerry are appreciated in lieu of flowers. Organizations and research important to Jerry include Parkinson’s Foundation, Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, NU-9 Research and Veterans Service Organizations.
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