Delmore Gustafson

Delmore (Gussie) Gustafson died Wednesday, January 16, 2013 at Bethany Home in Alexandria following complications with heart disease. Delmore was born May 25,1927 in Belgrade MN to Allie and Nora (Leite) Gustafson. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. As a baby his family moved to Holmes City where he lived for 13 years. Delmore's family also lived in Brandon and Kensington. He graduated in 1945 from Kensington High School. Gussie was drafted and served in the U.S. Army state side. After his discharge he moved to Alexandria where he was employed at Great Lakes Pipeline for 17 years and United Federal Savings and Loan for 18 years. On December 12, 1951 Delmore married Audrey Benson. They lived on Fillmore Street their entire married life where they raised their three children. Gussie enjoyed fishing, hunting, and bowling. He loved to dance and was a member of the Lakeside Dance Club and so enjoyed circling the floor to the music of Jimmy Jenson at the VFW. He loved to visit. His outgoing personality made him a friend to everyone. Gussie loved being outside and his yard on Fillmore Street reflected that. The yard was manicured like that of a park. Gussie was truly a giving person and was active with the Shriners and Masons. He was also a member of the American Legion where he was responsible for the flag placement on eight cemeteries in the Holmes City area. Gussie was a charter member of the Eagles 3063 and also an active member of the First Lutheran Church. He donated his time at the Douglas County Food Shelf for over 20 years. Traveling is something else he enjoyed and made trips to Nova Scotia, Norway, Alaska and 16 trips to the Host Fest in Minot, ND. Spending time with his family was most important to him. Gussie had a strong work ethic. He stood up for what was right and had the backbone to confront what was wrong. Not only was he a wonderful neighbor and friend, but he was determined to make our world a better place and he did. He was totally devoted to his family and was a wonderful example of how to treat others. Gussie cherished the time he spent with his grandkids whether it be at ballgames, stockcar races or any other activities. His grandchildren adored him. Delmore is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Audrey; children: Mark and Junelle Gustafson and Jan Kalina all of Alexandria, and Gail and Donnie Stein of Rosemount; grandchildren: Dan and Chas Kalina, Andrea and Blair George, Matthew Gustafson, Melanie and Kevipak Akeya, Callie Stein and Caedey Stein; step grandchildren: Ryan Conn, Ahndree Conn, Tiki Conn and Desi Conn; and great grandchildren: Evan Kalina and Jack Ryder Akeya. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Delores Biever. Funeral services were held on Monday, January 21, 2013 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria with Reverend Marilee Bergerson officiating. Music was provided by Randy Morken, Patrick Kalina and Jimmy Jenson. Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home. www.andersonfuneral.net