Lisa Jo Gustafson

December 9, 1964 ~ February 11, 2018
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
Lisa Jo Gustafson, 53, of Asheville passed unexpectedly on Sunday, February 11, 2018, at her residence.
Born December 9, 1964, in Oil City, PA, Lisa was an avid gardener and Pittsburgh Steeler fan. She enjoyed her pets, especially “Heinz,” and was an adventurous lady enjoying bicycling, running and camping. She was also a gifted photographer. She was a graduate of Oil City High School Class of 1983, then attended Clarion University of PA. Her personality was unparalleled; she was a very compassionate, loving and caring individual. Her wit and sense of humor were contagious. She’ll forever be in our hearts.
She was preceded in death by her loving mother, Sandra Gustafson, in 2014; maternal grandparents, Bill and Marion McElhattan, and paternal grandparents, Ernie and Jo Gustafson; and aunt, Donna Kaelin.
Survivors include her father, Ronald E. Gustafson (Suzanne), of Asheville; siblings, Ron Gustafson (Nancy) of Oil City, PA, and Scott Gustafson (Patty) of Arden; niece, Erin Bomboy (George) of Franklin, PA; nephews, Matt Gustafson (Kaleigh) of Oil City, PA, Andy Gustafson, of Charlotte, Neil Gustafson, of Arden and Billy Gustafson, of Oil City, PA; great-nephews, Max Gustafson and Noah Bomboy, and great-nieces, Sydney Gustafson and Amelia Bomboy; aunts and uncles, Barbara and Ray Geiser, of Arden, Jerry McElhattan, of Oil City, PA, Terry and Karen McElhattan, of Sinking Spring, PA and Brian and Liz McElhattan, of Plano, TX; numerous cousins, and her significant other, George Thorp.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 24 at 2:00 p.m. at Bull Creek Ranch,Asheville. Interment will take place at Grove Hill Cemetery,Oil City, PA, at a later date designated by the family.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, 31 Glendale Ave., Asheville, NC, 28803
Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road is assisting the family.
My deepest condolences and sympathy to Lisa’s family as they endure the pain of her absence. I’ve known her for over 40 years, growing up in two neighboring streets. Her wit and sense of humor will live onward in all hearts touched by Lisa.
So sorry for your lost she was a beautiful soul and will be missed.
Lisa was such a loving happy person, she accepted everyone. The memories I have of her in school and out I will hold dear in my heart. Prayers for her family, Heaven has gained a very bubbly angel….. Love you Lisa….. you will be missed.
Sending prayers and love to all of Lisa’s family. My childhood was filled with laughter and adventure because I called Lisa friend. She was a special kind of person, easy to love and quick to love others. Always full of fun and probably one of the funniest people I have known. Although I haven’t seen Lisa in close to 30 years – through Facebook we rekindled our friendship and I felt as close to her as I did when we were little. We were all blessed to have Lisa in our lives – I will hold tight to the joyous memories I have as I struggle to accept her passing.
I am so very sorry to learn of Lisa’s passing. I had not seen her in several years, but had reconnected online, and I was so looking forward to getting together with her.
Deeply Saddened
So sorry for your loss. Prayers
Godspeed to you Cease., Soar with the angels
We were so saddened and extend our heartfelt sympathies to the entire Gustafson and McElhatton families and everyone who loved Lisa. I have not seen Lisa in many decades but still remember her giggling as a small child. She was such a happy little girl and full and always smiling. As I looked at her beautiful picture and read her obituary it was eminent she was as beautiful on the inside as well. Many fond memories have been flooding my mind of Gustafson/Hovis BBQ’s, vacations and outings. Sandy Lake, Hasson pool, picnics and one particular vacation stood out. Our Mom’s packed all 5 children in Sandy’s Dodge Duster or Dart was it ??? and set off for Lake Michigan. I think our Dad’s were on their annual fishing trip to Canada. It was a long trip Ronnie, Scott and my brother David in the back seat and Lisa and me up front with our Mom’s. Lisa and I fell asleep and she had a lollipop in her mouth which ended up firmly planted in my hair and stuck out of my head like a horn. Seems so funny now but at the time I’m quite sure I made quite a fuss about it. Our memories are something we will always have and I hope the memories you have of this dear sweet young lady will fill your hearts and give you some kind of peace and comfort knowing that she is now in heaven with all her loved ones that have passed before her. God has wrapped His arms around this very special angel and will keep her safe until you see her again. May God bless your family and friends and give you peace, comfort, and strength to endure this most difficult time and beyond. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers, Warren & Julie Hovis Dale
Heaven gained a beautiful angel with a big smile and a bigger heart.. Lisa was always there for everyone and will truly be missed.
Prayers to her family and all of the lives she touched.
You will be missed my friend.. Love you always XXOO
Godspeed Lisa . Class of 83 .