Obituary of James Bertle "Bert" Gustafson
James Bertle "Bert" Gustafson
1947 – 2024
With heavy hearts the family of James Bertle “Bert” Gustafson announce his passing on September 5, 2024, at the age of 77 years. Bert was born on January 29, 1947, to Dora and John Gustafson in Canwood, SK.
Bert grew up in the Cookson district, attending school there and later, high school in Shellbrook. He went on to attain interprovincial journeyman status as a plumber in the early 70's. Around the same time, he started dating Julie Stieb while they were both residing in Calgary. They were married January 9, 1975. Bert and Julie spent several years traveling around the country for work; Prince Rupert, BC, The Pas, MB, and Prince Albert, SK being a few of those places. They finally settled in the Brightholme district in 1977, purchasing the farm from Alphonse Ferster.
Michelle was born to them on November 1, 1978; Carmen came along 18 months later on April 29, 1980. Bert continued to split his work life between the farm and the plumbing trade for many years. He spent much of his life working in Northern Saskatchewan, first for the Northern school board, and later at Key Lake and Cluff Lake mines. As well, he spent several years in Lloydminster and Northern Alberta. He continued to educate himself throughout the years, adding journeyman steamfitter/pipefitter, and gas fitter to his list of trades. In later years, he owned and operated Old Tyme Plumbing and Heating. Julie tended to farm duties while Bert was away for work.
They farmed mostly hay and pastureland for their herd of cattle. "Salers" were the breed of choice for Bert. During his retirement, he liked to tinker in his workshop on the farm, fixing up old John Deere tractors. Playing cards was another of his favourite pastimes. He loved winning and provoking the ladies at the senior center in town. Bert and Julie sold the farm in May of this year. They moved to a small acreage near Shellbrook where Julie still resides. He was a strong and stubborn man. He knew how to work hard and appreciated a good joke with his loud infectious laugh. He had an intensely soft spot for the various family pets over the years. He was fiercely proud of his daughters. He riled Julie up on a daily basis, especially during his retirement, however, he continued to putter around and take care of the yard while he was able. He was loved and will be dearly missed.
Bert is survived by his wife - Julie Gustafson (nee Stieb); His children, Michelle (Greg) Folmer of Prince Albert; Carmen (Dave Ivanco) Gustafson of Martensville; his grandchildren, Chandler (Bailey Spears) Folmer of Red Deer, AB, Reid Folmer of Prince Albert, SK, Andy Campbell of Martensville, SK; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, a brother in law, and several sisters in law. Bert was predeceased by his parents, John Bernhard Gustafson and Dora Marguerite Gustafson (nee Aitken); and his brother, Glenn Gustafson.
As per Bert's wishes a private family service will be held. In lieu of tributes, memorial donations may be made in memory of Bert to the Prince Albert SPCA (Box 1832 Prince Albert, SK S6V 6J9). Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home & Crematorium, Tammy Smart, Funeral Director, Shellbrook, SK 306-747-2828.
