Donald George Gustafson, III, of Deer River, MN passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 14, 2025 at the age of 43.

Don, affectionately known as "Little Don" by his family, "Don Mega" by his friends, and "The Last Don," a name he bestowed upon himself, was born on September 2, 1981 in Minneapolis, MN, the youngest child of Donald Jr. and Linda. He graduated from Rockford High School in 2000.

Don's love of the outdoors began at an early age—so early, in fact, that he once purposely missed the school bus just to spend a beautiful day outdoors "playing hooker" as he proudly informed his neighbors. His outdoor adventures included a lifelong passion for hunting and fishing, which he shared with his father, brothers, uncles, cousins, nephews and many friends. The annual fishing opener in Ely was always a highlight, where the days were filled with lots of cooking (and eating), high-stakes poker playing, a little Jack Daniels, and occasionally catching a fish or two. Deer, duck, bear and turkey hunting were also traditions he rarely missed.

Don's adventurous spirit also led him to pursue a variety of activities. In his younger years, he was passionate about snowboarding, though his love for the sport was ultimately cut short by knee injuries. When he got older, he replaced snowboarding with skydiving and went on to complete over 800 jumps, spending many weekends experiencing the thrill of jumping out of airplanes.

Don was a dedicated and hardworking individual. As a journeyman electrician, he took pride in his work and was always ready to lend a helping hand to friends and family, whether it was tackling a project around the house or at the cabin.

Don's life journey ultimately led him to purchase a home on Sand Lake, a place that had always held special memories. As a child, he learned to fish and hunt at his grandparents' cabin, and as an adult, he carried on those traditions with his daughter and family members. Sand Lake was the center of family gatherings, where countless memories were made—fishing, hunting, boating, swimming, bonfires, fireworks, games, garage dancing, golf cart rides, four-wheeling, ice fishing, snowmobiling, second dinners, and endless amounts of laughter.

Don will forever be remembered for the immense pride and love he had for his daughter, Lilix. His generosity and graciousness were evident in everything he did, and he was always quick to express his heartfelt appreciation. Don's clever wit, genuine smile, and infectious laugh were a constant source of joy, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His absence will leave an immeasurable hole in our hearts forever.

Don is survived by his daughter, Lilix Gustafson; his parents, Donald (Carole) Gustafson, Jr. and Linda Gustafson (Roman Pierskalla); his grandmother, Luwana Gerads; his siblings Timothy (Cindy) Gustafson, Sarah (Justin) Smith; his step-siblings Andrea (Randy) Billinghurst, Christopher (Samantha) Berg, Gina (Jeremy) Stratton and Jerad (Rachel) Pierskalla; his nieces and nephews, Troy, Heidi, Charlie, Hannah, Olivia, Colton, Aiden, and Kaia; and his former wife, Amandah Gustafson. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Edward Gerads, Donald Gustafson, Sr., and Ruby Gustafson; and his aunts, Charlene Gerads and Mary Ervin.

A private celebration of Don's life is being planned, and a memorial fund is being established in support of his daughter.