When I enrolled as a Chemistry major in 1964, I did not know the relationship I was to build with Dr. Gustafson. During my last two years, I was the only chemistry major, and I supervised and taught laboratory classes and took courses, all leaving me with great memories. But my times with Dr. Guftafson as a student in my senior year were particularly memorable. If you knew Dr. Guftafson, you would remember his stare and significant pauses as he waited for an answer. So you might appreciate my hours with the professor in my senior seminar, where he ONLY asked questions! For an hour each class, he answered my answers with a question. Imagine the mind and quick thinking to lead me to understand and prove my grasp of chemistry. And don't miss the fun and amusement he had! After class, we would talk (and be corrected). Dr. Guftafson was more special than we knew. In 50 years as an industry consultant, I've never had the fortune of ever meeting another man like him. God blessed me through him, and I am always thankful.

Dr. Gustafson holds a special place in my memories of my early student days at Briarcliff campus of King's.  I clearly recall his patience when  I came in for an after-classtime question and answer session in organic chemistry.  After I sat silently listening for most of the class, he asked if I had a question.  I replied that I didn't even understand enough of the subject to know what to ask!  He gave me special help and enabled me to succeed in a subject that didn't come easily for me.  He really cared about his students and was such a kind man.
Judith (Claassen) Reynolds, class of 1968

I was a student at The Kings College in the late 60s and had Dr. Gustafson as a Chemistry professor. He was among many wonderful professors at TKC who not only taught their courses well but also took an interest in their students and sought to have a Christian influence on them. 
My sincere sympathy to his wife and family. 

I did not have to take science courses at TKC because my USAF training in physics allowed me to satisfy that requirement.  That does not mean I did not interact with many professors in the hard sciences.  Dr. Gustafson was a godly and engaging man, and well deserved the honor of being "Professor Emeritus" at TKC.  I am so grateful for the Godly professors who, like Dr. Gustafson, brought their relationship with Christ to their work, and were better scientists because that asked God to help them understand their area, and how to help students see science from a Christian perspective.

I am so great full to have had Dr Gustafson as my organic chem professor. His willingness to instruct, his dedication to students and his lived example as a Christian in the sciences had a profound impact in my life. My deepest sympathies to family at this time. Thank you for your willingness to share him with students.

I was a student of Dr. Gustafson in the 70’s and he was my professor for both General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry. He was always a kind, articulate, approachable, knowledgeable person and he encouraged me in my Christian faith and academic pursuits. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.

He taught me Organic Chemistry at The King's College (1975 to 79), and I always appreciated his teaching.  I just wish we had a more personal friendship over the years, but we didn't really click.  I think my Aspergers Syndrome (undiagnosed until 2004) made our interactions more odd for both of us.

OBITUARY

Carl G. Gustafson Jr.

April 27, 1925 – May 29, 2021

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