Shirley Gustafson
L’ANSE — Shirley P. Gustafson, age 86 of L’Anse, MI passed away Monday, December 15, 2025 at UP Health System, Marquette with her loving family by her side. She was born in L’Anse on June 4, 1939 the daughter of the late Harold and Irene (Johnson) Pettersen. Shirley graduated from L’Anse High School in 1957. She married Richard “Dick” Gustafson on March 1, 1968. He preceded her in death on August 11, 2021. Shirley had been employed as a secretary at Baraga County Memorial Hospital. She was a member of United Lutheran Church, L’Anse and the former L’Anse VFW Post #3897. Shirley enjoyed partying, shopping, watching the Lions and spending time with her family and friends.
Shirley is survived by her loving family; stepson Robert “Bob” Gustafson of Denver, CO and Richard Gustafson of Michigan, step grandchildren Jeremy (Toni Lynn) Cleary of Houghton, Bobby (Danielle) Cleary of Negaunee, and Kyle Gustafson of Baraga, several step great grandchildren, a step great-great granddaughter, her sister Rosie (who has since passed) (Don) Funke of L’Anse, nieces and nephews Joanne (Roy) Kemppainen, Gayle (Bill) Voskuhl, Kathy (John) Falk and Kurt (LeRita) Allert all of L’Anse, several great nieces and nephews and great great nieces and nephews, and special friends Diane LaForest and Amy and Chris Nett. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Dick, son Jim, and her sister and brother-in-law Vivian and Art Allert.
Funeral services for Shirley will be held at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 14, 2026 with Pastor Julie Belew officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Immediately following the funeral services, the family invites friends to join them for a luncheon at the L’Anse American Legion Post #144.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials in Shirley’s honor to be directed to United Lutheran Church, 21 Mesnard St, L’Anse, MI 49946. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Spring interment will take place in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery.
Shirley’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.reidfuneralservicechapel.com
The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.