James Gustafson

James Gustafson, 69, of Atkinson, IL, passed away peacefully at his home on November 26, 2020 after a short and courageous battle with cancer.  A memorial visitation will be held from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 24, 2021, at Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Atkinson Chapel.  A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m., at the funeral home, with Linnea Gustafson officiating.  He will be laid to rest at St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery, Atkinson, IL.  Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Atkinson Rescue Unit.  Per the family’s request, if you have already made a donation, please do not feel obligated to donate again.

James was born on October 2 1951 in Kewanee, IL the son of Harold M. and Donna J. (Nicholson) Gustafson. He married Maryclair VanDeRostyne on June 30, 1984 and she survives.

James worked in construction for Morton Buildings for 43 years before retiring in 2013. After retirement he worked for the village of Atkinson. He had the green thumb of the family and loved working in the yard and being outdoors. James and Maryclair enjoyed traveling with their friends to the Florida Keys but most especially watching the grandkids baseball and soccer games.

He is survived by his wife, Maryclair, children; Heather Gustafson of Geneseo and Tony Gustafson of Atkinson, grandchildren; Jamie, Castin and Connor Gustafson, siblings; Bill “Boo” (Robin) Gustafson of Annawan, Debra Gustafson of Fischer, IL and Dawn (Dave) Croegaert of Ogden.

James was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Pamela Gustafson.

The family would like to thank Compassus Hospice especially Christine and Lisa for all their loving care for Jim.