John W. Gustafson

July 30th, 1932 - December 9th, 2020

John 's Memory Wall

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Jack was loved and respected by many over the years. He will always be remembered, spoken about and loved. As a father, Jack instilled in his children the desire to be strong individuals who will carry on his legacy of love, honesty and respect for all. As a couple, Rita, you and Jack epitomized the phrase “two shall become as one”. You both enhanced each other’s strength; improved each other’s quality of life; believed in causes that aimed to make the world a better place for mankind and animals. I love you Rita and I loved Jack. Your forever sister, Kathy

Kathryn Vargo

December 14th, 2020 at 11:28am

Judge Gustafson was recommended to us by an attorney friend after another Judge wanted to charge an exorbitant fee to marry us. We were told he would be glad to do it for free. We met with the Judge and were very impressed with him. He had a great sense of humor and was honest as the day was long. We had a hard time believing he would officiate for free, however, we soon learned otherwise when we tried to insist on some small amount for his trouble. We even offered to pay his transportation costs but were told that it wasn't permitted and he refused. He said he enjoyed starting young people on their way but he required only one thing from us --- that we never get divorced. We, of course, promised wholeheartedly. Judge "G" married us on Sunday April 15, 1984 in a Ballroom in Rosemont. We were eventually able to convince him that, as his "friends", we could invite him to the reception and provide him with a free meal. We were honored to have known him, even for a short while. We will always remember when we said our goodbyes that night. He had to leave early to get his taxes done - Ha! Thanks to Judge "G", we will be celebrating our 37th year of wedded bliss in 2021. Rest in Peace friend!