Gary David Gustafson, 60, of Largo, passed away on July 4, 2010 at Bay Pines VA Health Care System after an eight month battle with cancer.
Born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he spent the last 23 years in Florida. He was an Army veteran of Vietnam and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm. He became a mechanic for most of his life and worked as a radio tech the last ten years for the City of Clearwater.
Gary is survived by his wife of 23 years, Tia; their three children: Andrew, Jessica, And Kristina of Florida and his three children: Michael and Kellie of Minnesota and Annie of California; his brother: Daryl of Minnesota; and five grandchildren.
Gary was a kind and friendly man. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
“Gary, may you rest in total peace and watch over all of those you loved.”
Graveside service will be held with full military honors at 2:15 PM on Wed. July 28th at Bay Pines National Cemetery, 10000 Bay Pines Blvd., Bay Pines, FL.
Gary and I first found friendship while working on the shop floor at COC Fleet. He was always there for me when I needed help. Years later we were in different positions but still I depended on him for help. I could not have been successful as a supervisor without him to depend on in the Radio shop. Whenever I needed to vent or just a friends ear I only had to go as far as him. He made a difficult job much easier for me. I will always miss his smiling face and our laughter over some funny conversation.Thank you for your friendship.
Gary and I worked together at the City of Clearwater. He was a good man and I am proud to call him my “friend”. He will be greatly missed. Gary had the best sense of humor and a great laugh! He loved to share a good joke. Rest in peace my friend until we meet again.
I’ve only know Gary for a couple of years, but during that time I knew that I could talk to him about issues and we would arrive at a practical solution. A very friendly and compassionate man, he will be missed.
I was your cousin, and altho I haven’t seen you in years, remember your happy spirit and playfulness. You will be rememberd for those who loved you, but mostly for what you gave back to this country as a Soldier and Veteran. I honor you and will not forget your sacrifices. May you rest in peace. Emily Angelo
My name is Anni Fischer, and I was Gary’s daughter. I found him in 2001 and enjoyed knowing more about him in the short time I knew him. Even though I didn’t hear from him much the last couple of years, I am so glad he is not suffering anymore. Today is a sad one, as I just found out he is gone. Please rest in peace, Gary.
I have been thinking about you alot, and wish that we had been able to connect over the years. I talk with your wife, and am trying to be there for her when need be. She misses you, and is a neat lady. Until we all meet again.Emily