Steven Gaustad

Steven (Gus) Knute Gaustad, 60, of Ashby, formerly of Minneapolis/Lakeville died comfortably Tuesday, May 4, 2010 at his residence under the care of his family and Lakeland Hospice.

He was born December 19, 1949 in Minneapolis to Clarence and Myrline (Smith) Gaustad. He lived in, worked in, and enjoyed life in Minneapolis until moving to Ashby 8 years ago to pursue his love of fishing and the pleasure of living with his family and friends in this area. Steve loved his country and served with the U.S. Air Force in Viet Nam during the war. He was a crew chief on Phantom jets and was proud to say he "never lost a plane under his care." After returning home, he served in the Army Reserve. Steve was a past commander of American Legion Post 234 (Vincent L. Giant Valley) and a member of VFW Post 1296 (Everett McClay). He was a welder, appliance repairman and watch and clock repairman by trade but his true calling was helping people. He will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lucille; stepsons, Christopher and Joshua; grandsons, Drake, Gavin and Skylar; a brother, David (Gloria) of Florida; a sister, Kathy (Robert) of Arizona; a special aunt, Betty of Colorado; 3 sisters-in-law: Ruth of Minneapolis, Darlene of California and Judy of Blaine, MN, nieces, nephews, extended family and many, many friends and neighbors. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant daughter, his brother, Joel, favorite aunt Jorund Wold, brother-in-law, Bill Nerison and niece, Roxanne Kittelson.

Steve's family would like to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to the wonderful nursing staff at Lakeland Hospice for the care and compassion they gave to Steven and his family.

Visitation: Friday from 5 to 7 PM with a prayer service at 7:00 PM at the Glende-Nilson Funeral Home in Ashby.

Second Visitation: Monday from 5 to 7 PM at the Henry W. Anderson Mortuary in Minneapolis.

Burial: Ft. Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis - 11:00 AM Tuesday

Funeral Home: Glende-Nilson Funeral Home of Ashby

Condolences: www.glendenilson.com