Raymond Ernest Clifford Gustafson, age 95, of Fort Frances, Ontario, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at La Verendrye General Hospital, with family by his side.
He was born in Fort Frances on June 6, 1931, to Folke and Laura Gustafson (nee Rodland). Ray was a proud, lifelong resident of the Fort Frances area. He dedicated his entire career to working for CN Railways, showing a deep work ethic and contributing decades of steady service to the rails. In his younger years, Ray was an avid outdoorsman who found great joy in nature, sharing countless unforgettable adventures hunting and fishing throughout Northwestern Ontario alongside his close, lifelong friends, Oscar, Roy, and Stan. His desire and motivation to cut firewood was legendary, even up to the final weeks of his life.
On October 18, 1955, he married the love of his life, Jacqueline “Jackie” Garland, with whom he shared 55 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2011. In 1977, Ray moved his family up to Miller Bay (10 miles east of Fort Frances), establishing the cherished home where he would permanently reside until his passing. Miller Bay became the heart of his life—a place filled with decades of lakeside memories and quiet contentment.
As a devoted family man, Ray took pride in watching his family grow across generations. He is lovingly remembered by his brother Rudy Gustafson, and his sisters Audrey Lefort and Janice Munn. He leaves behind a great legacy in his four children: Gregory Gustafson (Shelly), Cynde Gagné (Robin), Mark Gustafson (Laura) and Heather MacEachern (Geoff), along with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Ray was predeceased by his beloved wife Jackie; his sister Gloria Loney; and his brothers James Gustafson and John Gustafson.
In accordance with Ray’s wishes, a private celebration of his life was held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by the comfort of his home and the love of his family.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
