[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 56 (Tuesday, May 7, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E731]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               PAYING TRIBUTE TO ROBERT GUSTAFSON ------

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 7, 2002--

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I take this 
opportunity to pay respect to the passing of Robert Gustafson, who 
recently passed away after almost a century of commitment to his 
community and his state. Robert was a pillar of the Grand Junction, 
Colorado community, and as his family mourns his loss, I think it is 
appropriate to remember Robert and pay tribute to him for his 
contributions to Colorado.
  Robert was a shining example of a man thoroughly involved in his 
community. Robert was a member of the National Rifle Association, the 
Orchard Mesa Gun Club and the Lutheran Church. He was a past district 
leader of the Grand Junction YMCA, a past commissioner of the Health 
and Safety Boy Scout Western Council, a merit badge counselor to the 
Boy Scouts Western Council, and a lifetime member of the Colorado 
Association of School Boards and the National Association of School 
Boards. In an effort to serve his community, Robert gave his time and 
leadership as the Vice President of Grand Junction Kiwanis Club, as 
Vice President of the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce and President 
of the Wiseman's Club Grand Junction. Robert also served his country 
proudly during World War II as a member of the Ration Board.
  Robert was known for his love of outdoor activities, including fly 
fishing and gardening, and was well known for his abilities as a silver 
smith, gunsmith, and woodworker. His musical abilities on both the 
violin and the saxophone were well regarded, and he was the first chair 
violinist in the Mesa College Symphony Orchestra. Robert was a favorite 
uncle of many nieces and nephews and will be remembered by many for his 
kind soul and gentle spirit.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Robert Gustafson 
for his contributions to the Grand Junction community. His dedication 
to his family, friends, work, and community certainly deserves the 
recognition of this body of Congress, and this nation. Although Robert 
has left us, his good-natured spirit lives on through the lives of 
those he touched. I would like to extend my thoughts and deepest 
sympathies to Robert's family and friends during this difficult time of 
bereavement.

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