Tributes

On Saturday, April 18th, 2009, Norman "Gus" Gustafson was released from what the Apostle Paul called this "mortal body" or "earthly tent" into the Presence of the Living Lord Jesus. After fighting valiantly for the last six months against a number of major health issues, this release into the arms of the Lord had been his prayer. Born of Swedish immigrant parents Albert and Ellen Gustafson, Norm was born June 17th, 1926 in Jamaica, New York. Norm is survived by his wife and best friend, Frances Gustafson, to whom he said every day, "I'm glad you married me", his daughter Norma Gustafson, his son Paul Gustafson and wife Judie, and his son Carl Gustafson and wife Phyllis, all residing now San Antonio. He is also survived by grandchildren, Mandie Pignato and husband John, Stephanie Bean and husband Sam, Jonathan Gustafson and wife Kim, Cody Gustafson, Kara Burkett, Grant Gustafson and wife Farrin, and Jason Burkett; great grandchildren, Michael and Lily Pignato. Norm met Frances, who was from Brooklyn, N.Y, on a blind date. Fran likes to say that "she chased him until he caught me." And after 58 years of marriage, it was evident to all that they shared a deep love and affection for one another. Their close circle of friends from New York has kept in close contact all these years, meeting regularly for reunions on the East Coast. His working career started at the Empire State Building in NYC delivering telegrams and then worked for the Life Savers Candy Company. From there, his career took him to San Francisco and on to Denver, Colorado selling linens to hotels, motels and hospitals. All three of their children were born in Denver. Then God smiled favorably on the family and they were transferred to San Antonio Texas in 1960 where the Gustafson family has had their roots deeply planted ever since. A career change resulted in Norm taking over the William F. Schutz Company, a property management company in downtown San Antonio, across the street from the Alamo. In those early years in SA, Gus was deeply involved in local politics and volunteer work for the Republican Party. Many deep and lasting friendships were formed during those years. First and foremost for Norm was his family; he was a devoted, loyal and loving husband and gave his kids the greatest gift of all - a stable, loving home filled with lots of encouragement. In 1975, his career took another turn, and he truly found his calling when he purchased a fledgling company using the life savings of his Swedish mother for the purchase! - When he bought Ace Mart Restaurant Supply. With no prior knowledge or experience in the foodservice industry, Norm built this company through countless hours of hard work and sacrifice into a company which has won national recognition as an industry leader and for innovation of the cash and carry model. Recognition by your peers is a highlight for any career, and Gus received two lifetime achievement awards from the industry. In 2004, the Sam Anoff Award was presented to him at the Food Equipment Distributors of America Conference in Naples Florida. And then two years ago, Norm received the ultimate tribute when he was chosen as the fifth recipient of the industry's Hall of Fame Award presented by the Foodservice Equipment & Supplies Magazine at a presentation ceremony in Chicago. He was extremely proud that all three of his children were following in his footsteps continuing and growing the operation of Ace Mart. The family wishes to express their deepest greatest gratitude to Christus VNA Hospice Care and to Nix Homecare for the care and support they provided Norm and Fran during his final four months at home… the aides became an extension of our family. A Gathering of Friends and Family will be held Friday, April 24th, in lieu of a viewing, at Ace Mart Restaurant Supply's corporate offices, 2653 Austin Highway, from 6:00 pm-8:30 pm. Memorial Service - Saturday, April 25th, 10:00am Community Bible Church, 2477 North Loop 1604 East Pastor Dan Carter will be officiating the service Interment ceremony at Mission Park Cemetery at 20900 IH 10 W, followed by a reception. Directions will be given at the ceremony. In lieu of flowers, any memorials may be sent to either the "Gustafson Family Foundation" which annually supports Norm and Fran's favorite charities or to the "Norman Gustafson St. Philips College Culinary Scholarship Fund", supporting young people entering the foodservice industry. For either, donations can be mailed c/o Ace Mart Restaurant Supply, 2653 Austin Highway, San Antonio, Texas 78218. You may sign the on-line guestbook at www.missionparks.com under the obituary section. MISSION PARK NORTH 3401 CHERRY RIDGE SAN ANTONIO TX 78230 210349-1414

Tributes

Norman A. Gustafson

June 17, 1926 - April 18, 2009