James "Gus" Gustafson

James “Gus” Gustafson

Age 81 of Wilmington, passed away Monday morning, January 14, 2020 at AMITA Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee.

Born January 2, 1939 in Joliet, Illinois James Ronald was a son of Henry and Marietta (Donaldson) Gustafson. He was raised in Joliet; graduated from Joliet Township High School, and went on to honorably serve in the United States Air Force. On December 28, 1982, Gus married Bernie (nee Mitchell) in the First Church of God in Shorewood, and she preceded him in death on November 6, 2016.

Gus worked as a machinist at Johnson and Johnson Personal Products until his retirement. He enjoyed woodworking and collecting classic cars, and will be remembered as a fan of both the Chicago Bears and Cubs.

Survivors include nieces and nephews: Linda (Harold) Hazekamp of Oak Forest, Illinois and Bob (Alva) Schroeder of Foley, Alabama; his special cousin Joy, and best friends: Tom and Betty Zilske of Wilmington.

Gus was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Bernie, and two sisters, Lois and Carol.

The family will receive friends for a visitation on Saturday, January 18, 2020 from 12:00 noon until time of funeral service, 2:00 p.m. at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington.

Burial with military honors will follow in Oakwood Cemetery, Wilmington, where Gus will be laid to rest with his late wife Bernie.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Gus’ memory to the activities fund at the Illinois Veterans Home Manteno, 1 Veteran’s Drive, Manteno, Illinois 60950.

Family and friends may sign the guest book, upload photographs or share Gus’ memorial page online through social media by logging onto: www.BaskervilleFuneral.com/notices/RobertGus-Gustafson

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)