Marilyn “Jean” Gustafson, 89, of Warren, PA, passed away on Tuesday, December 8, 2020, at the John and Orpha Blair Hospice Residence in Warren, PA. Born on March 7, 1931 in Warren, PA, she was the daughter of the late Rodney and Wilma Emerson Zwald. Jean was a 1949 graduate of Warren High School and continued to be active with planning class reunions. She was employed for many years with the former National Forge Credit Union. Jean enjoyed painting with oils and pastels and loved to read and go boating. She enjoyed going dancing every weekend. She even sponsored the Multiple Sclerosis walk at The Rouse Home.
Jean is survived by her three children – Susan Kiser and her children, Kellie Carlson (Jeff), and Wendy Franks (Phillip); Rick Gustafson and his wife Diane, and their children – Kristen Frick (Joe), Ashley Geary (Mike), Nikki Hollabaugh (Justin); David Gustafson and his wife, Theresa and their children – Jill Fitzgerald (Jesse), Eric Gustafson (Lyndsey), Michael Gustafson (Angela), Sarah Fisher (Eric); granddaughter – Jodi Garrison Jones (Steve); 24 great grandchildren; 6 great-great grandchildren; 2 sisters – Mary Carol Cartney of Titusville, PA, and Nancy Lyon of Warren, PA; and many nieces and nephews. Jean is also survived by her good friend and dancing partner, Dick Bertch of Warren, PA. In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Donald R. “Gus” Gustafson, whom she married on June 18, 1949 in Warren, PA, and who died on March 29, 2008; her daughter – Marcia Gustafson Garrison, who died on September 8, 2002; an infant granddaughter who died at birth; granddaughter – Julie Kiser Stewart; and son-in-law – John Richard Kiser.
Friends may call at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East St., Warren, PA, on Friday, December 11, 2020, from 5-7pm. Please be aware of CDC guidelines and State mandates regarding social distancing and wearing of masks. A private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family with Rev. Marcus Briggs, retired minister, officiating. Interment will be in Warren County Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to place a memorial may do so to National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Pennsylvania Keystone Chapter, 1501 Reedsdale Street, Suite 105, Pittsburgh, PA, 15233, or to Hospice of Warren County, www.hospiceofwarrencounty.org, 1 Main Avenue, Warren, PA, 16365. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com.
I’m so sorry to hear of Jeans passing. I got to know her at Family Medicine then realized she was my friend Judy’s aunt! Thinking of her family and extending sympathy
I’m sorry Jean has passed away! It has been many years since I was in Warren to visit her. To each of you, Sue, David, Rick, and your families my extended sympathy.
David, Theresa, Eric, Lyndsey and families ~ Deepest sympathies to all for the passing of your mom, mother-in-love, grandma and great-grandma. No doubt she will be a true angel watching over all and will always be with each of you in spirit. May it warm your hearts and ease the heartache to know that she and “Gus” will be together for Christmas. Thoughts and prayers will continue to be with each of you.
So sorry to hear of your Mother’s passing. I grew up on the Southside and we were neighbors. I remember your Mother well. Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Dave, Rick & Sue – So sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. Many memories of Jean, Gus, Lennie and mom on the lake. My mom extends her deepest sympathies to your family along with Ron and I.
Letting you know you are all in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless! Bob & Jean Hollabaugh
My sincere sympathies to the entire family for the passing of a great lady, Jean. I loved her dearly since I was part of the family, being married to Julie before her passing many years ago. She will be dearly missed and I am so glad she was part of my inner circle, what a blessing she was.
Praying for all of you. I used to do Painting Class with Jean – she was the best painter there! I so enjoyed spending time with her and will miss her. My sincere sympathy.
We are so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the many wonderful memories you have of Jean.