Robert Leonard Gustafson
May 18, 1946 - May 25, 2026
After a life well lived, Bob passed away suddenly and quietly at home one week after his 80th birthday.
He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Vivian, daughters Betta (James), Moira, and grandsons, Graeme and Sean. He also leaves his sister Shirley, nephew Denis, niece Wendy (Jeremiah), great-nephew Liam, great-niece Ellie, and many beloved in-law relatives.
Born in Nelson, British Columbia, Bob met and married Vivian in Whitehorse, Yukon, in 1970. They embarked on a life together guided by the mantra “Why not?”, embracing new experiences with a spirit of adventure.
Bob was devoted to his family, friends and to the care of others. As a husband, he was thoughtful and deeply loving. As a father, he guided with kindness, patience, and quiet example. As a grandfather, he experienced pure joy in playtime when they were little, and pride in watching them grow.
Bob was a dedicated physician, first working as a family doctor in Middleton, Nova Scotia, before taking an opportunity to practice emergency medicine in the United Arab Emirates. He later specialized as an anaesthetist, working predominantly at the Misericordia and Grace Hospitals in Winnipeg. Toward the end of his medical career, he worked as a Medical Advisor for the Workers Compensation Board in Winnipeg and Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.
Beginning in his early forties, Bob’s life was marked by significant medical conditions including heart disease and diabetes. In more recent years, Parkinson’s Disease created a new set of challenges which he endured with patience and resilience.
Bob’s life spoke volumes through quiet acts of service, generosity, and love. He touched many lives without seeking recognition and leaves behind a legacy of compassion, integrity and strength.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, June 2, at 2:00 pm, Neil Bardal Funeral Centre, 3030 Notre Dame Avenue.
Your presence and support mean the most. If you would like to honor Bob with a gift, a donation may be made to Parkinson Canada.
Branch & Pyre Cremation Care