Robert D. Gustafson, 87, passed away Sunday, May 13, 2012, at Saint Vincent Hospital. He leaves his wife of 55 years, Betty (Strand) Gustafson; a daughter Sandra A. Duguay and her husband Kevin Duguay of Holden; a son David A. Gustafson and his wife Lisa (Ward) Gustafson of Sturbridge; four grandchildren, Zachary and Allison Duguay and Tyler and Justin Gustafson. He also leaves his brother Richard Gustafson of Worcester, sister Evelyn Seburger and her husband Charles of NJ, a sister-in-law Gertrude (Mrs. Arthur) Gustafson of NC, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a grandson Joshua Gustafson, sisters Hannah M. Costello and Helen Luperchio, and brothers Arthur and Sven Gustafson.

Bob was born in Worcester, son of Anna M. (Chellberg) and Gunnar Gustafson and was a graduate of Commerce High. He and Betty were married on May 18, 1957 in Zion Lutheran Church. Bob worked at Norton Company for many years and was manager of the Hardware Department at Spags Supply until he retired in 1988. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Holden, and for a short time, a member of Bethlehem Lutheran in Sturbridge until returning to Holden and Immanuel Lutheran Church. He was a member of church council, Senior Koinonia, and many church committees. Bob was also active taking children to various missions through the years. He was a member of the Holden Senior Center and worked at the Holden polls. He enjoyed his family and will be missed by many good friends – especially those at Immanuel and Colony in Holden where he lived the last four years.

Calling hours will be held at Nordgren Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, May 16, from 4-7pm. The funeral service will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 346 Shrewsbury Street, Holden on Thursday, May 17, at 11am. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 346 Shrewsbury St Holden MA 01520 or to Camp Calumet, PO Box 236, W. Ossipee, NH 03890.