Dwane Gustafson

Dwane Gustafson, 78, of Willmar, died Wednesday, March 19 at his home in Willmar. His memorial service will be 2:00 pm, Friday, March 28 at the Assembly of God in Willmar. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. A livestream of the service can be found here. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Home in Willmar. www.hafh.org

Dwane Robert Gustafson was born on December 6, 1946, to Robert and Minnie (Carlson) Gustafson in Minneapolis. When Dwane was in second grade, his family relocated to Willmar, where he was confirmed at the Covenant Church in 1960. He graduated from Willmar High School in 1964 and continued his education at Willmar Community College before earning his doctorate degree from the Illinois College of Optometry in 1969.

On July 15, 1967, Dwane married Cheryl Olson in Willmar, and together they were blessed with three children. After completing his studies, Dwane returned to Willmar, where he began working as an optometrist alongside his father. Soon after, Dwane joined the Army and served as an optometrist until his honorable discharge in 1973. Following his military service, he returned to his father’s practice and played a key role in growing Family Eye Center, which expanded to seven locations. Additionally, he helped establish a new facility, now known as Fischer Laser Eye, in Willmar. He always considered his patients as family.

A devoted member of the Assembly of God Church in Willmar, Dwane was baptized in 1986 and was an active participant in church activities, including Sunday school, ushering, serving as a trustee and deacon, visiting shut-ins, teaching VBS, and being part of the missions committee. Dwane was also involved in an optimist club.

In his personal life, Dwane enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including fishing, camping, traveling, attending sporting events, and spending time with his family. He had a special love for the lake, especially their lake home on Diamond Lake, where he cherished moments on the pontoon.

Dwane will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryl; children Mike Gustafson, Jenny (Troy) Raitz, and Matt (Theresa) Gustafson; grandchildren Isaiah (Jaci), Isabelle, Levi (Maddie), Olivia (Mitchell), Ava, Sadie, Sam, Jonah, Elizabeth, Michael, and Claire; great-grandchildren Miles and Dawson; as well as many beloved in-laws.

Dwane was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Minnie.

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