Obituary of Ralph J. Gustafson Jr.

STONY CREEK:  Ralph J. 'Jerry' Gustafson Jr., 62, of Stony Creek, NY, passed away on February 19, 2025, at Glens Falls Hospital, following a brief illness that was not diagnosed until shortly before his passing.

Jerry was born on June 28, 1962, to Ralph and Myrna (Smith) Gustafson in Danbury, Connecticut. He graduated from Joel Barlow High School in Redding, CT, and soon after chose to join his father's excavating business, Area Excavating, also in Redding. In 2002, Jerry moved to Stony Creek, where he worked for the Town of Stony Creek at the transfer station and in parks and recreation.

Jerry lived a simple yet meaningful life, devoted to hard work, which was a core part of his daily routine. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed music, especially the Beatles, and could often be found tending to his garden. He treasured time spent with his nieces and had a deep love for animals, who seemed to return that affection.

Left to cherish Jerry’s memory are his parents Ralph and Myrna Gustafson of Stony Creek; siblings Janet Schrader of Warrensburg, Kate (Jeff) Gazerro of Tennessee, David Gustafson of Warrensburg and Jason Gustafson of Connecticut; beloved nieces Claire Schrader and Amanda Gustafson and many close friends. 

Donations in memory of Jerry may be made to:  Peter Young Housing, Industries, Treatment Centers, 428 Duane Ave., Schenectady, NY 12304 or www.pyhit.org.

A celebration of life will be held later this year.

Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online condolences and guest book.