Sadly, we announce the passing of Gerald (Gus) Gustafson. He passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on March 5, 2023. Gerald (Gus) was born on November 22, 1947 in Woodland, Ca., moving to Grimes at an early age. He was baptized and confirmed at American Lutheran Church in Woodland. Growing up Gus was a loyal Boy Scout, achieving the highest rank of Eagle Scout. Gus graduated from Pierce High School in Arbuckle in 1965 and attended Yuba College.
Growing up, Gus developed a love for big rig trucks, working on engines and fixing up Hot Rods. He was a proud member of the Woodland Time Makers Car Club. This love continued as a pit crew member for Hard Top Car Racing at West Capital Speedway. Gus was a faithful Sprint Car Race fan.
In grammar school Gus would watch the big rigs driving by (he was supposed to be studying). One of his favorite memories as a child was riding along with his older cousin LeRoy Wahl in his big rig, hauling and delivering loads. Gus worked as a truck driver and eventually purchased his own red Peterbilt truck. After selling his truck, he worked as a tree trimmer and selling firewood.
Gus’s greatest passion was his collection of vintage gas pumps, High Boy oil pumps, porcelain and neon signs. Gus was very proud of his collection and enjoyed sharing stories with others. Gus displayed his collections as events, including the Colusa County Fair, Heidricks Museum, many years at the Yolo County Fair, and Poor Boys Midnight Mass. Gus called it “Show Time.”
Gus is survived by his wife Vicky, daughters Kelly (Daniel) Fahey, Kimmi (Jason) Meitrell, and Michelle Gustafson Scott; three grandchildren, Olivia Fahey, Alliyah Bautista and Cody Scott, sister Ardy (John) Miller, brother Mark (Glenda) Gustafson as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Alvin (Gus) and Delores Gustafson.
A celebration of life will be held March 28, 2023 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Heidricks Ag Museum, 1962 Hays Lane in Woodland.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be directed to Grand Island Cemetery, PO Box 334 Grimes, CA 95950. ■
PUBLISHED 03/30/2023 • COLUSA COUNTY PIONEER REVIEW #2023-0225