Esther R. Gustafson

Esther R Gustafson, 100, of Rockford, IL passed away December 19, 2025, at Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center in Rockford. She was born March 07, 1925, in Mountain Lake, MN to David and Marie Heinitz. She moved to Rockford and married Roland Gustafson on February 16, 1947. Together they had 2 sons, Roger and Larry.

Esther is remembered for her great love of family and friends, her hard work throughout her life, and her determination at whatever she tried to accomplish. Esther was also known for her talent as a seamstress. She completed sewing projects for family members and friends for many years. From clothing alterations, creating Halloween costumes for the young family members, window draperies, and any other sewing projects requested to do. Esther is preceded in death by her husband, Roland; son, Roger; parents, David and Marie; brother, David; sisters Lydia Hoffman, Marie Flater, and Molly Dierks. She will be dearly missed by her son, Larry (Bernice) Gustafson; granddaughters Kari (Scott) Schrank and Jamie Kowalski; grandson, David; great grandchildren, Ellie and Emily Schrank; nieces, nephews and friends.

A special thank you to the staff at Fairhaven for their compassion and care for Esther during her final years. Also, a thank you to family and friends for their support and visits with Esther. Frequent visits and phone conversations with niece Joann was greatly treasured by Esther.

Final arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home. Burial to be in Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery in Rockford. A celebration of life is to be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Redeemer Lutheran Church Radio Mission in Rockford, IL.