[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 33 (Tuesday, February 27, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E405]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   IN MEMORY OF MR. ROBERT GUSTAFSON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOE KNOLLENBERG

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 27, 2007

  Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, I want to recognize the life and 
achievements of a great business leader, teacher, and Michigander, Mr. 
Robert Gustafson, who passed away on February 20,2007.
  While Mr. Gustafson's career rose to great heights as CEO and 
Chairman of Hubert Distributors, Inc. in Pontiac, Michigan, his humble 
beginnings give insight into his future achievements. After graduating 
from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Mr. Gustafson became a 
teacher at Wayland High School in Wayland, Michigan. An avid music fan, 
his leadership of the school's band program saw a threefold increase in 
student participation during his tenure.
  After teaching, Mr. Gustafson went on to pursue his interest in 
aviation. He founded Michigan Air Activities, where he taught hundreds 
of students under the Federal G.I. flight program, as well as sold and 
repaired aircraft. In addition, Michigan Air Activities had a fleet of 
aircraft that serviced well known customers such as General Motors, 
Ford, and Chrysler. Mr. Gustafson would later establish Kalamazoo 
Aviation and serve as President of the Airport Advisory Group.
  Mr. Gustafson then joined Hubert Distributors where he oversaw the 
construction of one of their warehouses. From there he rose up the 
ranks from a sales manager to the CEO and Chairman. Utilizing his 
teaching experience, Mr. Gustafson overhauled the employee training 
program at Hubert by writing, producing, and directing the training 
videos that are required for all new hires.
  Yet Mr. Gustafson's works reach beyond the realm of business as he 
was actively involved in philanthropy and charitable work. The Robert 
Gustafson Wing of St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Hospital bears witness to 
his commitment to give back to the community.
  Today, I remember Mr. Robert Gustafson for his lifetime of service 
and dedication to our community. My sincerest thoughts and prayers go 
out to his family and loved ones.

                          ____________________