Robert Walter Gustafson

Robert Walter Gustafson, 90, of Essex, CT, passed away on July 5, 2025. He was born on June 13, 1935, in Providence, RI. Bob graduated from Cranston High School and received the Bausch & Lomb medal for science. He attended the University of Rhode Island, where he earned his degree in Civil Engineering with top honors and participated in the ROTC. There he met his future wife, Barbara Hopkins. Bob served as a 1stLieutenant in the Army, stationed at Fort Benning, GA in the Army Corps of Engineers where he trained recruits. He then proudly served 6 years in the Army Reserves. He and Barbara settled in Milford, CT, where they raised their family. He dedicated his career to Southern New England Telephone Company. The family moved to Guilford and then upon retirement moved to Essex. Bob was passionate about woodworking and made anything from furniture to kitchen cabinets and porches for each of his homes. Amongst his hobbies were gardening, fishing and small boating. He actively supported his children’s interests in swimming and art. Bob and Barbara especially enjoyed visiting Williamsburg, VA where he photographed ideas for restoring his historic home. His retirement years were spent traveling throughout the U.S. as well as the United Kingdom, Italy and Austria.

He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Gustafson; his children, Dee Gustafson, (Andy Kaplan) of Cranston, RI, Sarah Gustafson-Spaner, (Michael Spaner) of Deep River, Susannah Gustafson Stout, (Graham Stout) of Glasgow, Scotland, and Gregory Gustafson (Caroline Cochran) of Memphis, TN; his grandchildren, Sophie and Linette Spaner, and Matthew and Calum Stout. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Sigfrid Gustafson and Agnes Martin Gustafson.

Bob was known for his good nature and caring personality. He especially enjoyed time with his family and meeting new people. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Details regarding a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.