Edwin Todd Gustafson, 87, passed away Monday, Dec. 30, 2024 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Ed was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, coach and friend.
Ed was born on March 11, 1937 at his home in Eau Claire, the son of Edwin and Margaret (O’Brien) Gustafson. He graduated from Eau Claire High School in 1955. He attended Western Michigan University where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education in 1959. His first teaching position was in Coldwater, where he also coached multiple sports.
Ed married the love of his life, Joyce Coon, in 1960. They were blessed with 64 years of marriage. They began their married life in Coldwater before moving to their lifelong home in Hartford in 1963, where Ed came to teach Industrial Arts and became the varsity football and track coach.
Throughout his years at Hartford High School, Ed taught drafting, wood and metal shops. He had a heart for students who would learn skills to make their life’s work with their hands. Ed coached varsity football for eleven years and varsity track for fifteen seasons, eight of which in a row were conference championship years. In later years, Ed coached cross-country. He served as the HHS athletic director for twenty years. He worked hard to build a culture of discipline amongst the student athletes while supporting his coaches.
After 30 seasons in education, Ed and Joyce began their business, Gustafson Pools, in Hartford.
In 1988, Ed and Joyce, along with their children, purchased Joyce’s parents’ farm and planted their first Christmas trees. For many years Ed could be found as the greeter at Tall Timbers Tree Farm, helping families with their Christmas trees. His happy personality fit this role perfectly.
During their long marriage, Ed and Joyce set a wonderful example of how to love and support one another. They were blessed with the ability to travel to places of their dreams and spent many winters in Florida, before coming home to enjoy their grandchildren. During retirement, Ed could be found riding around the farm with his beloved Golden Retriever, Katie, building beautiful furniture in his woodshop, and watching the current sport that was in season. He still called balls and strikes until the end.
Ed, who was called Gus by friends and family and Coach G by his students, is survived by his loving wife, Joyce, his daughter Cheryl (Joseph) Heinisch, his son Eric (Teisha) Gustafson, and grandchildren Michael Heinisch and Lauren Gustafson, all of Hartford.
Ed was preceded in passing by his parents and his sister, Rosalind “Snookie” Dohm.
As per Ed’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Ed’s Life will take place on April 26 at the His Place Community Outreach Center in Hartford. Details will be announced at a later date. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Memorials in Ed’s memory can be made to the Hartford Fire Department. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http:www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
The family would like to thank Dr. Erika Nearpass, Lakeland Homecare, Ed’s wonderful home health helpers, Centrica Care Hospice, Pastor Ed Richcreek, the Hartford Fire Department, and family and friends for their support.
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