Marie (Mitzie) Gustafson passed away on May 7, 2021, at the Wells Nature View Assisted Living Facility in Marshfield. Mitzie was born on April 20,1937, to Mary and Pete Malkovich in Gilbert, MN. Mitzie grew up in Gilbert and graduated as the valedictorian of her high school class and then went on to earn a BA degree in Elementary Education from the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Upon graduation, Mitzie taught elementary school in Duluth. While attending UMD, Mitzie met Gary Gustafson and they wed in May of 1959.
After relocating to Marshfield in 1965, Mitzie balanced raising her 3 children with her teaching career. In Marshfield, Mitzie’s focus in the classroom was on reading and special needs education.
Out of the classroom Mitzie was a teacher as well, with those lessons often taught by example. Family was a priority for Mitzie, and her love for her family was boundless. Always supportive and showing her love in many ways, the giving and caring nature of Mitzie will live on in her children.
As a member of Faith Lutheran Church, Mitzie was a vital part of the Piece Corps group which assembled countless quilts and layettes which were distributed to charities around the world. Mitzie also enjoyed gardening and the many wildflowers found on her and Gary’s property outside of town. She often worked to spread and propagate those wildflowers and they now provide a colorful reminder of the dear person Mitzie was.
Mitzie is survived by her husband, Gary; children, Jeanne (Luke) Sykora, Erik (Rhonda) Gustafson, and Kristin (Tom) Seyfert. Also surviving are her 2 brothers, Peter, and Thomas Malkovich. Mitzie was blessed with six grandchildren, Ezekiel, Bethany, Jordan (Dayna), Danica (Ryan), Schuyler, and Logan (Kayla). Additionally, 6 great-grandchildren that include, Amare, Anasia, Annabelle, Sophia, Austin, and Kera.
The family would like to thank their friends for their concern and support during Mitzie’s health issues. The family would also like to thank the staff at Wells Nature View for their compassionate care during Mitzie’s time there.
A private family memorial service is scheduled for Friday, May 14. In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to donate to the charity of their choice.
Online condolences may be made at www.hansenschillingfuneralhome.com for your convenience.
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