Thoughts From Pete Gustafson's Grandchildren

Pete Gustafson
June 13, 1931 - August 15, 2004

Pete Gustafson passed away of mesothelioma cancer on August 15, 2004. (Click here to read more about this special man). Born in Bellingham, Washington, Pete and his wife Charlaine raised three children and had six grandchildren.

The following are a few of the poignant memories of several of Pete's grandchildren. Pete Gustafson was a very special man. We lament his passing and share the grief of his survivors. I'll never forget Pete in his garden, tending to his flowers. He was such a peaceful, tranquil, and loving man, even the bees didn't attack when he brushed them aside. RGW

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"What Stands out of mind About Pa was his amazing work ethic. He practically lived outside. If it was light outside, he was out there. About years ago, I was working with him, helping him plant tree. I looked over at him, and was so impressed by his muscles. He was getting older, but I was still ripped. As I start my own family, I am going to apply the same dedication for work that he taught me. ~ Michael

" I remember when I was Little and I was sitting on Pa's lap while he was backing up the motorhome. Grammy started walking towards us, and he ducked down so he could only see me driving the motorhome. Grammy was freaking out and Pa and I just laughed." ~ Lauren

"He knew every kind of plant by name, common name and genus/species name. He took every opportunity to teach me about a certain flower or plant. If you had a question about anything growing outside, he knew the answer. he would pour over gardening books so much that I'm sure he could read about every kind of plant earth has to offer. I bet he is having so much fun seeing all the new plants and flowers God designed for heaven. When I get to heaven, I know he'll be there waiting to teach me all about them, too." ~ Lynn

"I'm proud to have been born into the Gustafson family. Pa taught me that being a is carrying on a legacy of love and being a servant of God. I am going to strive to maintain the level of honor that he brought to the name." ~ Matthew

"Papa loved going to church. No matter how weak or sick he was, he always mustered enough strength to make it to church on Sundays. He was really sad last Sunday when he wasn't able to go. We said to him, We'll try real hard to get you to church next Sunday, he was walking through Heaven's gates, and straight into the best church service ever." ~ Erin

"Bailing wire, duct tap, PVC pipe and clear plastic tape......what could Pa make these materials? What couldn't he! A green house, a water collection system, a little boy's imagination. Pa was an inventor, a creator, a mentor, and a friend. He taught us self-reliance, hard work, and innovation all with patience, love, and try sense of humor. His legacy lives on his children and grandchildren." ~ Andrew

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Pete Gustafson

*** POSTED SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 ***