Richard Gustavson
June 6, 1943 — July 9, 2012
A memorial service is planned in Scotts Valley this weekend for Richard Gustavson, an artist and lifelong Santa Cruz County resident, who died July 9 at his home in Brookdale. He was 69.
Mr. Gustavson was born in Fresno to Gus and Hattie Gustavson. The family moved to the Pasatiempo area, and he attended Scotts Valley School from first to eighth grade and graduated from Santa Cruz High School. He was a bodybuilder in his 20s.
Mr. Gustavson started painting at a young age and dedicated his life to art, according to relatives. Using both oils and watercolors, he became known for painting many of the classic Victorian homes in downtown Santa Cruz and crafting models of sailing ships from small pieces of wood.
Family members noted that Mr. Gustavson took the bus everywhere he went and was a quiet person focused on his artwork.
He is survived by his mother, Hattie Gustavson of Scotts Valley; daughter, Robin Gustavson of Santa Cruz; brother, Andy Gustavson, and his wife, Deborah, of Felton; and four nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his father, Gus Gustavson.
A memorial service will begin at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 11, at St. Phillip’s Episcopal Church, 5271 Scotts Valley Drive, in Scotts Valley.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the Santa Cruz High School art department, 415 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95060.
