Obit: Gustafson, Richard - MSgt. (? - 2015)

Contact: Robert Lipprandt
bob@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Gustafson, Winkler

----Source: The Star News (Medford, WI) 5/21/2015

Gustafson, MSGT Richard (? - 14 MAY 2015)

EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Master Sgt. Richard Gustafson, assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, was found dead in his residence at approximately 2 p.m., May 14.

The circumstances surrounding his death are being investigated by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

Gustafson served as a Tactical Air Control Party operator in the Air Force since joining July 26, 2002. Prior to joining the Air Force, he served as a small boat operator in the Navy for five years.

He earned several medals while serving, including the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal and Air Force Achievement Medal.

Gustafson was most recently serving in a special duty position as the Chief of Inspections for the 354th Fighter Wing Inspector General office.

"We're all saddened by the sudden loss of this decorated warfighter," said Col. Michael Winkler, the 354th Fighter Wing commander. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Gustafson family."

Funeral Services for Gustafson will be on Wednesday, May 27 at 11 a.m. at Hemer Funeral Service in Medford.

Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

Note: MSGT Gustafson’s information was extracted from Eielson Air Force Base [Alaska] news release. Birth information was not published with either obituary.