AUBURN___William A. “Billy” Gustafson, 73, of Auburn and formerly of Worcester passed away on Sunday, January 30, 2022 in UMASS Memorial Medical Center – University Campus. His wife of 50 years, Mary Jane “Janie” (Gouin) Gustafson died two months ago on November 29, 2021.
Billy leaves his children, Cynthia Gaudet and her husband, Ryan, Debra Gustafson, William A. Gustafson, Jr., and Christopher Gustafson, seven grandchildren, Ryan, Victoria, Paige, Cassandra, Marisol, Carlos and Samuel, a sister, Mary Lou Monopoli, cousins, several nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Billy was born in Worcester a son of the late William David and Mary Catherine (Barbetti) Gustafson and was also predeceased by an infant brother, William D. Gustafson and a half brother, Lawrence Larson. He was raised in Millbury and graduated from Millbury High School. He later lived in Worcester for most of his life.
Mr. Gustafson enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and served during the Vietnam War. He worked as a mechanic many years for Norton Company before he retired.
Billy shared his passion for sports and outdoor activities through coaching numerous football and softball teams, leadership in Boy Scouts, and by teaching children to fish, swim, and appreciate the simple things in life. He did this while working multiple jobs to support the family he loved.
The funeral will be held on Monday, February 7, 2022 from HENRY - DIRSA FUNERAL HOME, 33 Ward Street, Worcester with a Mass at 10:30 A.M. in Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, 34 Ward St, Worcester. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Calling hours in the funeral home are Sunday, February 6, 2022 from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M.