Barbara Gustafson

February 18, 1925 - November 4, 2023

Barbara Ann Burns Gustafson passed away peacefully at her home in Maui, Hawaii on November 4, 2023. She was born in San Francisco on February 18, 1925 and raised in Burlingame, CA.

Barbara attended

Our Lady of Angels and graduated from Mercy High School where she assisted in implementing the athletic program for young women. While she was employed at United Airlines, she met a handsome young pilot, Captain Russell (Gus) Gustafson. Captivated by his irresistible charm, Barbara married the love of her life at St. Catherine of Siena Church in 1945. They celebrated 69 years of marriage and welcomed 8 children into their lives.

Barbara cherished raising her large family in the home she and Gus built together in Hillsborough, CA. She was a beautiful and gracious hostess who loved to entertain throughout her life. She organized countless special occasions and holidays, including summer and winter vacations in Lake Tahoe. Her creative skills sparked numerous family traditions which continue to this day. Barbara’s many talents included gourmet cooking, sewing, designing and decorating. She also loved gardening and caring for her impressive collection of orchids.

Barbara was an avid bridge player who loved to play tennis and attend events at the Peninsula Golf and Country Club where she was a member for over 50 years. She participated in various Catholic charities and enjoyed volunteering within the community. She was also involved with the civic arts and held season tickets to the San Francisco Ballet and Symphony. Barbara and Gus were world travelers who visited many exotic and historic destinations, her favorites being the safari in Africa and Tuscany, Italy.

After residing in Hillsborough for 60 years, Barbara and Gus moved to their island home in Maui and hosted family and friends frequently. Barbara fully embraced the Hawaiian culture and had deep appreciation for the local flora and fauna. She strongly supported Maui’s many gifted artists and had great affection for painting with watercolors. She was also a long-standing member of the Lahaina Yacht Club. Barbara spent her final years enjoying magnificent ocean views, beautiful sunsets, whale watching and blowing her conch shell.

Barbara was an amazing mother, mentor, and friend who was inspirational in her enthusiasm to experience life to its fullest. She will be deeply missed by her loving and devoted family. Her legacy has made a lasting impact on the lives of all who knew her.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, Harper and Catherine Burns, and her husband, Russell.

She is survived by her sister, Madeline Burns and brother, Harper Burns. Her eight children,

Catherine Yamas (James), Russell Gustafson Jr. (Margaret), Gary Gustafson, Kristofer Gustafson (Donna), Barbara Gabrelow, Mary Ellen Pellegrini (Gary) Steven Gustafson (Jill) and Therese Walling (Michael), 13 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

The services will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Hawaii Community Foundation, Maui Strong Funds, for the fire victims, in Barbara’s memory.