Edsel Gustafson

Madison - Edsel Warren Gustafson, age 90, passed away on Wed. Nov. 28, 2012 at Oakwood Village University Woods. He was born in Moline, IL to Amanda (Johnson) and Ernest Gustafson on April 4, 1922. Edsel graduated from Moline High School in 1940 and George Washington University in 1947.
In 1943 he served in The Pacific with a final assignment as Captain. When honorably discharged in 1946, Edsel married Betty Banks and returned to G.W. U. to graduate. Upon graduation he was selected to play in the Chicago Tribune 1947 ALL Stars football game against the Chicago Bears and won 16-0. He accepted an offer from the Brooklyn Dodgers football team and played two years.
Ed joined the Central Soya Company working there for 26 years in Sales and Marketing of Master Mix Feeds. In 1975 he took the opportunity to join the Vita Plus Cooperation. Prior to retirement in 1987 he served as the company President and CEO.
In 1992 he was honored by being inducted into the G.W.U. Alumni Letterman Hall of Fame.
Ed and Betty traveled the world extensively after retiring. Betty preceded Ed in death on April 5 2011.
Ed is survived by his sons, Tom (Nancy) Gustafson and Jim Gustafson; Grandchildren, Erik, Brett, Scott and Luke.
Memorial contributions may be made in Edsel's honor to the American Cancer Society, Covenant Presbyterian Church or Alzheimer's Association.