Melvin E. Gustafson, age 85, of Rapid River passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022 at the St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay.
Mel was born on August 27, 1936 in Perkins, Michigan, the son of Bert and Dorothy (Mosier) Gustafson. He was united in marriage to Joann Nelson on October 26, 1959. Mel worked for the Harnischfeger Company (P&H) for 24 years, Lakeshore for 9 years and Valmet for 5 years, retiring in 2000. He was a liquor inspector and Constable in Baldwin Township for many years, a member of the Perkins Lions Club and enjoyed playing Smear with his friends. He enjoyed the outdoors, watching the wild life and the hosting a Wildlife Feed at “Mel’s Camp” for 20 years.
Mel is survived by his children, Donna (Bill) Hartman, Bob (Michelle) Gustafson, John (Keli) Gustafson and Sandy (Paul) Jacoby; grandchildren, Amy (Dan) Lubke, Heidi (Eric) Baumann, Eric Gustafson, Lee Ann Ryan , Pam (Greg) Peterson, Ric Rucinski and Taylor Gustafson; great grandchildren, Paige, Brandon, Meyer and Justin Lubke, Adalynn and Freya Baumann, Andrew, LIndsey, Axel and Aden Gustafson, Mason Ryan, Jackson and Landon Peterson and Jameson Meyer; siblings, Albert (Vi) Gustafson and Lenard (Maggie) Gustafson and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Joann, brother, John Mosier, infant sister, Helen and many in-laws.
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Sheila & Gary - Perkins, Mi
My heart is saddened with Mel’s passing. He was a good friend & I feel privileged to have known him. I hope his memory will always put a smile on your faces. Hugs to you all as you grieve your loss.
Bea Wettstein - Sheboygan , WI
Sandy, so sorry to hear of your father’s passing. Hugs and prayers to you, Paul and your family
Mary Decremer - Provincetown, Ma
My deepest sympathy.
Jill & Jim - Gladstone, MI
John, Keli and families,
So sorry to hear of Mel’s passing. He was a very nice man.
You have our deepest sympathy.
Jim & Jill Miller
Ann Marie Olsen - Gladstone, MI
Deepest sympathy. Robert and I are so sad for your lose. We will all surely miss Uncle Melvin. Prayers, hugsand love to all.
Bev Lippens - Rock, Mi
This man will DEFINATELY be missed. He was one of the many pillars in our community. His leadership along with his wife Joanne being members of the Lions Club and Legion would put on many Christmas and Easter parties for the families and kids. So many good times. You were such a good friend of Tom and myself..ill never forget your stories and smiling face. ❤
Maxine Vallier - Gladstone,, Mi
To the Gustafson children, Sorry to hear of your dad’s passing away, He was always a great person, We have so many good memories of long ago. Jerry and Maxine
Joan Dekeyser - Raid River , MI
Melvin and Joanne lived across from the family Forty in Perkins. They watched traffic going in and out which we appreciated. My sympathy and prayers go to you all. Joan DeKeyser Family
Shellie McRae Tsiopelas - Denver , CO
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Melvin. He is my grandfathers ( Julius Sorby) cousin. Melvin was a wonderful person and there were many fun and memorable times at my grandfathers camp. I spent many wonderful summers there. Our sincerest sympathies to all the family. May the Lord comfort you all