William “Capt. Gus” Frank Gustafson, 80, of Sherrills Ford, N.C., passed away on April 2, 2023. He was born on March 14, 1943, in Brooklyn, N.Y., to the late Harold and Catherine Bushart Gustafson.
Capt. Gus retired from Sears Department Store after 30 years of service. He then endeavored to start his own business, Fishin’ with Gus. He spent his retirement years happily serving others as a fishing guide. Capt Gus was well known and was a member of several community organizations, such as Mooresville-South Iredell Chamber of Commerce, Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce, Denver Business Association, and Lincolnton Chamber of Commerce. He served as an advisor on the Lake Norman Marine Commission and Southeast Outdoor Writers Association. Capt Gus was passionate about fishing and telling stories. He lived his dream life while sharing this passion with others, both young and old. He was loved by all who met him and will be missed by all his family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Capt. Gus was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Todd Gustafson.
He is survived by his son, Toby Gustafson (Cathy); three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; brother, Ken Gustafson (Trisha); sister-in-law, Carolyn Todd Summerlin (James); brother-in-law, Skip Todd (Jean); and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, April 14, 2023, at 1 p.m. in the Heritage House on the campus of Cavin-Cook Funeral Home and Crematory, Mooresville, N.C., with Pastor Tom McCrea officiating. A visitation will immediately follow the service.
Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Gustafson family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.
Capt. Gus was a pillar in the Lake Norman community. He was so kind to everyone he met and a mentor for small business owners. I met him when I first moved here and loved his passion for marketing and being involved in the community. He supported so many events and loved participating in anything lake related. He will be missed in Lake Norman for sure ❤️
Gus brought a lot of Character to Lake Norman. He was a very active member of the Lake Norman Striper Swipers and passionate advocate for the Lake Norman Fishery starting in the mid 90’s, and for many years after his tall tales, fishing reports and seminars were a staple of entertainment and information. A fishing charter, or a random crossing of his path was sure to have you shaking your head with incredulation or amusement…and you almost always walked away smiling. R.I.P. my friend.
– May you always have tight lines and following seas.
SO SORRY TO HEAR OF CAPT GUS PASSING AWAY… I HAVE ATTENDED HIS CLASSES AND WIL MISS HIM!