Gerald Oscar Rustand, age 82, passed away peacefully at his home with his wife Carolyn by his side on Saturday, April 13, 2019.
Gerry was born on May 17, 1936, at his home on Sunrise Road, Blaine, to Oscar and Enes Rustand. He grew up there and attended Lynden schools. He worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator and proud member of the Operating Engineers Local 302 in Whatcom County, Friday Harbor and Alaska. Chopping wood and running the chainsaw were tasks that Gerry loved.
Carolyn and Gerry were wed in October 1987. They lived on Pole Road and grew dahlias each summer. They would take flower bouquets to church every Sunday when the dahlias were in bloom. Gerry loved to go riding on his motorcycle with his wife Carolyn. One summer while riding, going 50 mph, his front tire blew and they went flying into the moss along the Glacier Road. They sat on their backs catching their breath thanking God for landing both of them in the soft moss along the road. Gerry loved to spend time with his family and friends. He was a devoted member of his church, New Life Fellowship. He was always willing to give someone a helping hand and could be counted on to repair nearly anything.
Gerry is survived by his wife Carolyn Rustand (Trapeur); his brother Art (Lois) Rustand; his sisters Rose Gregory, Arlene Metcalf and Millie Kriz; his sons Greg (Mary Lee) Rustand and Bill (Sandy) Knutzen; his daughters Daleen (Rick) Weidkamp and Roxanne (Wayne) Hancock; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Enes Rustand; brothers Richard, Melvin and Wayne Rustand; sister Dorothy Everts; and daughter Kathy Rustand.
Viewing and visitation was held on Friday, April 19, in Gillies Funeral Home, 202 Front St., Lynden. The graveside committal was held at noon Saturday, April 20, in Ten Mile Cemetery, 6268 Medcalf Rd. south of Lynden, followed by a 1 p.m. memorial service in New Life Fellowship, 810 E. Pole Rd., Lynden.
Memorials are suggested to the National Rifle Association (nra.org/donate); or New Life Fellowship, 810 E. Pole Rd., Lynden, WA 98264.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
