Steven Henry Gustafson, 76, of Grinnell, IA passed away February 1, 2024 at Unity Point Grinnell Regional Medical Center.

A visitation will be held Thursday, February 8, 2024 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell.

Steve was born on March 21,1947 in Davenport, IA to Sidney and Lenore (DeBondt) Gustafson. After graduating from Grinnell High School in 1966, Steve enlisted in the Navy during the Vietnam War. During his service, he was a part of the communication unit when stationed on the ship and in Guam, and the Navy Drum Corps. Following his discharge, Steve earned two degrees and began his career as a photojournalist. This took him to many communities including Shell Rock, Maquoketa, and Dubuque, before returning to Grinnell in 1987 to join his dad in advertising.

On July 26, 1975 Steve was united in marriage to Patricia Rolf in Marshalltown, IA. To this union the couple had two children Stephanie and Seth.

Steven was an avid drummer, and was a member of four different bands: The Brutes, The Stone Balloons, The Chosen Few, and Phafner. Phafner was formed in Marshalltown and following the release of their album "Overdrive" in the early 70s, they were an opening act for REO Speedwagon. He was a gun and Harley Davidson enthusiast, enjoyed flying remote control airplanes, and playing pinball. His ability to fix anything came in handy when repairing crashed planes and pinball machines. He loved spending time with his family, especially playing with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Patricia Gustafson of Grinnell; his children, Stephanie (Dave) Harper of Altoona, IA, and Seth (Mira) Gustafson of Grimes, IA; his grandchildren, Abby, Sydney and Reid Harper, and Lucas Gustafson; and his sister, Suzy Hill of Lawrence, KS.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Sidney and Lenore (DeBondt) Gustafson, and his brother-in-law, Roger Hill.

Memorials may be designated to St. John's Lutheran Church or The Wounded Warrior Project, mailed in c/o of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.