William "Bill" D. Gustafson

William “Bill” David Gustafson died peacefully on June 11, 2026. He was born on September 25, 1951, in Escanaba MI to Burton and Alice (Lundin) Gustafson. He attended school in Marquette MI and Laramie WY, graduating in 1969. Bill and Cindy were married on January 2, 1998, in Duluth MN and celebrated their 28th anniversary this year.

He attended the University of Wyoming, graduating with a degree in International Studies and later a teaching degree. He then attended the University of WI-Superior, graduating with a master’s degree in special education. He taught in various schools for over 30 years. Following his father’s footsteps, he coached several sports wherever he taught. They included football, track and field, cross- country, swimming and diving, girls’ basketball and youth hockey. An excellent athlete, he enjoyed competing in Grandma’s Marathons, and the Birkie ski races. He was a founding member of the Laramie Firebirds hockey team. Motorcycle touring was a passion for Bill and could talk non-stop about his trips. He lived a full adventure filled life, with a passion for kids. He enjoyed traveling with Cindy, camping and fishing. Always teaching something to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren gave him great joy, whether it was how to swim, ride a bike, waterski or play chess.

Bill is survived by his wife, Cindy (née Sarafiny) Gustafson; son, Dusty (Danielle LeBon) Keliin; daughter, Dana (Craig Stevens) Keliin; grandchildren, Brayleigh Keliin and Mia and Cal Stevens; great grandsons, Kingston Keliin-Carter and Reign Jackson; sisters-in-law, Shelly (Mick Holmes) Losey and Tina Sarafiny; beloved pups, Hero and Rosa; special best friend, Cal Rerucha; cousin, Cynthia Jaska; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by son, Nathan Gustafson; his parents; siblings, John Gustafson and Mary Serama; in-laws, Gary and Sharon Sarafiny; brothers-in-law, Gary Sarafiny, Gerald Losey, and Jim Wittig; and good friend, Brad Jones.

Visitation will be Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. at Jacobs Funeral Home in Iron River, MI. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. Cecelia Catholic Church in Caspian, MI with Fr. Daniel Fous to officiate.

He fought a valiant fight with ALS with grace and dignity. Memorials can be made to Iron County Youth Camp Batawagama or the ALS Society.