Garry Lee Gustafson

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Garry Lee Gustafson of Monte Vista, Colo., passed away of natural causes in his home at the Homelake Veterans Center on Saturday, April 22. He was 78 at the time of his death.

Garry was born on June 10, 1944, to parents Stasie and William Gustafson. The second of three children, Garry was proud of his military service, and being from Creede.

He served as a Marine Sargeant in Vietnam. Garry had many stories about his time in the service and could explain, in amazing detail, the different trips and experiences he had.

Garry spent the majority of his life on the Gustafson Ranch in his hometown of Creede, Colo. He had many jobs over his years, working for Mineral County, Kolish Lumber, and even the Creede Hardware store. Garry hauled logs, could run any kind of equipment, and could fix anything.

He helped his sister and mom in the laundry and always enjoyed visiting with everyone as they dropped off or picked up their items.

Garry also spent some time in Alaska, working construction and also helping his brother Charles build his house.

Garry’s garage at the ranch was a hangout for many friends. He restored numerous vehicles for friends and was always willing to help anyone. Garry helped the elk one year, using the ranch to coordinate hay deliveries during a large snow year.

Garry is survived by his brother Charles Gustafson and wife Carolyn; nephew Sven Gustafson and wife Kathy, niece Gwen Welch and husband Roy, along with grand-nieces and nephews Steven Gustafson, Julie Gustafson, Bryce Welch, and Cassie Welch.

Garry was preceded in death by parents William and Stasie Gustafson and sister Janet Postelle.

Garry’s ashes will be buried at the Colorado State Veterans Cemetery at Homelake in Monte Vista. A gravesite ceremony will be held on Friday, April 28, at 11 a.m. Following the service friends and family are welcome to gather at Dos Rios in Monte Vista for visiting and stories.

Rogers Family Mortuary is in care of the arrangements. To leave online condolences, tributes and words of comfort for Garry’s family, please visit www.RogersFunerals.com.