Stanton Parr Gustafson's Obituary
Stanton Parr Gustafson passed away Monday, April 1, 2024 in Florida at the age of 92 years.
He was born in Granite Falls, MN in 1932 to Elmer Willie and Esther Mae (Parr) Gustafson.
Stanton grew up on the home farm near Hanley Falls with his two younger brothers, Earle and Lowell and his pet pig, Chester. Working in the fields and doing chores were a big part of his life. His mother passed on her love of music, teaching Stanton to play piano and allowing him to take accordion lessons. Stanton shared his learned skills with his brothers. Birthdays, anniversaries and holidays were all celebrated with many aunts, uncles and cousins that Stanton remained close to all of his life.
Stanton was baptized and confirmed at Yellow Medicine Lutheran Church. He was the Salutatorian of the Hanley Falls High School Class of 1950. He continued his education at Augsburg College and graduated from University of Minnesota with Bachelor Degrees in Science and Education. His college education was interrupted from 1952-1956 while he served in the U.S. Navy. Stanton finished his formal education with a Master’s Degree from Central Michigan University.
His teaching career took him to Carson City, Nevada where he met Ron Emery in 1970. Stanton and Ron shared their lives for 50 years. Together, they enjoyed music, friends and family. They toured the country in their motorhome. Stanton was a world traveler and had visited all seven continents. His hobbies included gardening, planting and pruning trees. Many people remember Stanton for his extraordinary ability to easily recall dates and family history. Stanton was a life-long member of both the Hanley Falls American Legion Post 127 and the Masonic Fraternity.
After Ron’s passing in 2020, Stanton was fortunate to remain in his own home. Brian Smawley, a close and personal friend, was able to move in to become his full-time companion and caregiver. Stanton was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Earle and Lowell, sister-in-law Mavis, and Ron. He is survived by his sister-in-law Bonnie, nephew and nieces Kristie, Gayle, Bruce, Denise, Kathy, Kelly, and Molly and their families.
Blessed be his memory.
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