Gilbert Lee Gustafson
Gilbert Lee Gustafson, a true embodiment of the cowboy spirit, peacefully concluded his 79-year ride here on earth on July 15, 2024. Gilbert was born on August 11, 1944, to parents Adolph Brooks and Evelyn Elizabeth Gustafson.
Gilbert grew up in Galveston County, graduated from Lamarque high school in 1962 and went on to create a life that was a testament to hard work, kindness, and wisdom. He was a self-made businessman, building Gustafson Plumbing from the ground up. He was also a member of Plumber Local 68. His expertise extended beyond plumbing; he had a knack for real estate and was a member of the Southwest Cattleman’s Association.
His life was marked by remarkable achievements and an unwavering work ethic. His entrepreneurial spirit and multifaceted talents made him a respected figure in his community and a role model for those who knew him.
Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He leaves to cherish a lifetime of memories, his beloved wife, Kathleen Gustafson; daughter, Lisa Verm and her husband Jeff; son, Shane Gustafson; five grandchildren, Hannah McDowell and her husband Dylan, Kelsey Nelson, Carlee Moore, Kaylee Moore, and Alyssa Freeman; two great-grandchildren, Avery McDowell and Rylee Wooten; as well as extended family, friends, and colleagues.
He will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. As we say goodbye, we hold onto the countless memories and the profound impact he made on our lives. Gilbert will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
In his honor, a visitation will be held Thursday, July 18, 2024, from 5:00-8:00 pm in the Crowder Funeral Home Chapel, Dickinson, Texas, with a funeral service Friday, July 19, 2024, at 10:00 am. Interment will follow at Hayes Grace Memorial Cemetery in Hitchcock, Texas
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Santa Fe Fire and Rescue, as this organization held a special place in Gilbert’s heart. Contributions will support their ongoing efforts to keep our community safe and will honor Gilbert’s memory in a meaningful way.
Our sincerest condolences to the entire Gustafson family. Gilbert was a one of a kind man. He’d give you the shirt off his back if he thought you needed it. He will be shortly missed by many and will never be forgotten. May our Lord Jesus be with each of you.
Gilbert was truly a one of a kind person. He was such a joy to talk with. He would always ask me how my Mom and Dad were doing. I will miss seeing him around town and his post on FB. I will be praying for Gilbert and his family.
Kathy, we want to express our deepest sympathy for Gilbert’s passing. We know how much he will be missed and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers during this sad time. Gilbert, Kathy, Lisa, and Shane were a big part of our lives during the 70’s and 80’s. Between horses, get togethers, Runge park events, and more, we ran with the same friends and had lots of fun times. Then, life happens and situations change—and since that time we have not seen Gilbert and Kathy much. Sad to say, but it would be nice to catch up with him! He was a person who had a lot of skill and wisdom to give back in many ways! And, I am sure he did while he was on this earth especially if you were close to him! Gilbert was one of a kind who did what he believed in and lived it! We were Around him in his younger years but as time moved on it seems his entrepreneurial sprit stayed steadfast!! You will be missed!❤️
My deepest condolences to family and friends. The world was just a better place having him in it. I had the pleasure of working with Gilbert on projects together and along beside him and there was not a more diligent professional. I never had a conversation with him that he didn’t want to get together for lunch. Really going to miss that raspy voice that was uniquely Gilbert’s. My prayers to you all.
Kathy, Lisa & Shane, I truly know and feel your pain and sorrow. Gilbert loved his family dearly. I remember when he and Kathy started dating. I was devastated because they spent so much time together and I just knew that Kathy had taken my uncle Gilbert away from me. Kathy didn’t take him away from me though, she ended up marrying my uncle Gilbert and I gained a beautiful new sweet aunt. They then had two beautiful children, Lisa and Shane which gave me two cousins. I couldn’t have been happier. Gilbert was always a lot of fun and was very good to me, Joyce and Ray. Just as he was with everyone he knew. He was a good, strong, loving and supporting husband and father. Gilbert will be dearly missed by all that knew him. You can rest assured that Gilbert is resting in Heaven. He is rejoicing with the ones that went before him and awaiting the time that the rest of us join him. Kathy, Lisa and Shane may you all find peace within. Please know that me, Joyce and Cliff are praying for you to find that peace. Remember the good times you all had together and keep him in your hearts, and every thing will be ok. You’ll see. Love ya’ll.