Richard "GUS" Gustafson, 94, resident of Murrieta, CA, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 20th. Richard was born in Cook County, Chicago, Illinois, on October 31st, 1929. His childhood days were spent playing and attending school in Chicago. In 1948, at the age of 18, Richard enlisted in the Navy and served as a "Gunners Mate", and served 4 years. He received an honorable discharge and returned to Chicago to attend the Washburne Trade School, and obtained a certification to work in the construction industry.

Richard met his wife, Helen Schulz in Chicago in 1955 and were married in 1956. They moved to Southern California in 1957 and had three daughters. The family lived in Orange County where Richard was a union carpenter working for private developers as Southern California boomed. In 1966, Richard was hired at the El Toro Marine Base Naval Air Station, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Lighter Than Air (LTA), Blimp Hangar Base where he retired as a Civil Servant Carpenter after 23 years.

For many years Richard lived in Tustin, CA where he played tennis as a longest standing member of the Tustin Tennis Club. Playing tennis was a big part of his life and he retired from tennis after 47 years at the age of 89. Richard had many friends at the Tustin Tennis Club, always offered up a smile and joke, and willing to help someone in need.

Richard is preceded in death by his brother, Lawrence Gustafson, age 83, Park Ridge, Illinois. He is survived by his three daughters, Lorie Hobday of Palm Desert, CA, Jan Colburn of Murrieta, CA, and Lynn Mata of Murrieta, CA, three grandchildren, three great- grandchildren and former spouse, Helen Pierce.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Salvation Army. Cards may be sent to Lorie Hobday, 36089 Donny Circle, Palm Desert, CA 92211.

Thank You for your Prayers!