Harriet Gustafson's Obituary
Harriet Florence (Henderson) Gustafson was born in Chariton, Iowa on July 10, 1935 and departed this earth on May 15, 2023. She was the daughter of Gerald and Elizabeth (Wright) Henderson, and grew up in Corydon, Iowa.
She graduated from Corydon High School in 1953. Harriet credits her high school home economics teacher for her success at Iowa State University where she achieved her Bachelor of Science in Home Education Degree.
Harriet met her future husband Gus, on a blind date after he returned from service. They were married in 1957 the day after she graduated from college. She continued working at ISU until Gus graduated in 1958. Four sons were born to this union; Jeff, Jon, Carl, and Gregg.
After marriage the couple spent 1 year in West Bend, Iowa and 1 year in Minnesota. They came back to Corydon in 1960. Once the couple returned to Corydon, Gus went into the lumber business with her dad.
Harriet spent many years attending athletic events, scouts, band and any event her sons were involved in. Harriet enjoyed every minute of watching her boys' activities.
Harriet was involved in many clubs, boards, and activities over the years. They included PEO for over 60 years, Library Board, different hospital boards for 23 plus years, Home Owners Agency, Corydon Housing Association, Bridge Club, Red Hat Society, WAYCO Arts Council, and was a substitute teacher for 32 years. She was a member of the United Methodist Church and was the church choir director for 50 plus years. One of the highlights of her life was directing a county choir of 75 at Old Settlers with Simon Estes as the guest soloist.
She took great joy, and put many miles on her car, attending her sons, grandkids, and great grandkids athletic and musical events. She was known as "Mrs. Gus" as seen on her Cyclone license plate. It was a name given to her by the kids at school. In 2012 she was named Corydon Old Settler of the Year.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Gus in 1998, son Jon in 1977, and son Jeff in 2015.
Those left to cherish her memory are her sons Carl (Kim) and Gregg (Susan); daughter-in-law Cindy; (Jim) grandchildren Nicole, Melanie (Mike), Becky (Kelly), Britany (Chris), Tyler (Tara), Trevor, Trey, Grant (Madeline), Mackenzie and Ryan; great grandchildren Carter, Madison, Brenden, Brylee, Hannah, Hayden, August, Everett, and Whitman; brothers Bob (Carol), Mike (Cindy); brother-in-law Carroll (Karen) and many good friends.
Memorial have been established at the Corydon Untied Methodist Church and at the Wayne Count Library.
Service will be live streamed at my.gather.app/remember/harriet-gustafson
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