Steven Arne Gustafson passed away peacefully on the evening of Monday, January 1, 2024 at the age of 64 after a nine-year journey with early onset Alzheimer’s and dementia. He is survived by Lynnette Chen, his wife of 15 years, daughter and son-in-law Kelsey and Andrew Grootsky, son Huxley Gustafson, grandson Alexander Gustafson, brother Bruce Gustafson, sister Marta Gustafson and uncountable friends and family. Steve is preceded in death by his mother, Marjorie Louise Gustafson, father Arne Bruce Gustafson and step-mother Carol Blanche Gustafson.

Steve was born December 30, 1959 and grew up in Alameda and Walnut Creek. He graduated from Ygnacio Valley High School and earned a BS degree from Humboldt State University. His love for nature and conservation was solidified during his years working with the California Conservation Corps on backcountry trails and subsequent seasons with the National Parks Service. Later he worked for Rogers Machinery Company, Inc. and then for the Humboldt County Division of Environmental Health. He was a founding member of Marsh Commons Co-Housing in Arcata and a frequent walker at the Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary.

Steve always had a ready smile and easy laughter, loved playing all types of games and finding ways to incorporate everyone’s level of skill or interest if he could. He organized many outdoor game days and regular game nights for tabletop gaming. Steve was a devoted husband, beloved father, and a dedicated brother. And he readily formed many friendships great and small. He valued time spent outdoors, improving the neighborhood through small projects and work parties, and sharing his love of music. Steve touched many lives with his charm and goofiness.

Enduring thanks to the caring staff at Redwood R and R, Adult Day Health Care of Mad River, Hospice of Humboldt, and Ayres Family Cremation.

For details about Steve’s Celebration of Life event in April, please contact Kelsey on Facebook or by email: gustafsonApril24@gmail.com

If you would like to make a donation in Steve’s honor:

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Steve Gustafson’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.