Rita Mae Gustafson

Rita M. Gustafson, of West Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on September 2, 2026, at the age of 83. A visitation will be held Thursday September 24, 2026, from 5:00 to 7 p.m. at McLaren’s Chapel in West Des Moines, Iowa. A Memorial service will Friday September 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in McLaren’s Chapel.

Rita was born on April 14, 1943, Rita leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, creativity, family, friendship, and countless memories that will be treasured forever.

Rita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert “Bob/Gus” Gustafson; her daughter, Carmen Gustafson; her son, Todd Gustafson; her son-in-law, Mike Thomas, sister-in-law Susan Peterson, bother in law Ronald Meyers; and her parents, Sherman and June Peterson.

Rita had a gift for making life beautiful. She loved gardening, sewing, embroidery, music, traveling, and, most of all, spending time with the people she loved. Her creativity was woven into so many family memories. One of her most cherished accomplishments was sewing all six of Joann’s bridesmaids’ dresses, as well as creating countless matching dresses for herself and her daughters. Her love of embroidery led her to be involved with the Embroiderers’ Guild of America, where she shared her talent and passion with others.

Rita also loved teaching her children how to cook and bake, passing along recipes, skills, and the joy of creating something delicious for the people they loved. At Christmas, she made delicious cinnamon wreaths for everyone, filling the season with warmth, sweetness, and a cherished family tradition.

Rita believed in being involved and giving back. She was active in 4-H and Girl Scouts and took great joy in supporting her children in all of their events and activities. Whether she was cheering from the sidelines, helping behind the scenes, creating something special with her hands, or simply being there, her family could always count on her.

She had a wonderful sense of adventure, too. Rita loved to travel and made treasured memories exploring places such as Italy and Sweden. She enjoyed cruising and even became part of a memorable family moment in Maui, Hawaii.

But above all of her many interests and accomplishments, Rita’s greatest joy was her family and friends. She loved deeply, showed up faithfully, and created a lifetime of memories through the simple moments that mean the most.

Rita’s life was filled with music, laughter, creativity, adventure, and love. She leaves behind her daughter, Joann Thomas (Cornelius “Doc” Frazier); her son, Brian Gustafson; her sisters, Carolyn Meyers (Ronald) and Phyllis Hoch (Rudy); her brother, John Peterson (Joanne); and her brother- and sister-in-law, Roy and Jan Gustafson. She also leaves behind those who will miss her dearly, along with countless stories, traditions, photographs, handmade treasures, and memories that will continue to bring smiles and warmth for generations to come.

Her hands may no longer be busy in the garden or creating something beautiful with needle and thread, but the love she poured into the lives of others will never fade.

Rita will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.