Dorothy M. Gustafson, age 93, of Belvidere, Illinois died Monday morning, October 31, 2005 in her home after a short illness. Dorothy was born in Belvidere on March 23, 1912 the daughter of John W. and Catherine (O'Connor) Bownas. Following her mother's death, Dorothy moved to Wilmington, Del to live with her aunt. Later she returned to Belvidere to finish her education, and to keep house for her family. She met Halvar Gustafson and the two were married on March 14, 1936. Dorothy enjoyed traveling to northern Wisconsin to fish with her husband. She was proud to have lived in the same house for 58 years and enjoyed taking care of the lawn, feeding the birds and gardening; but when it was all said and done, she cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren the most. Dorothy is survived by her children, Joan Klein of Oregon, IL and Harvey (Donna) Gustafson of Pecatonica, IL; five grandchildren, Kathleen Gossett, Karen Hartenberger, Gary Klein, Denice Avery, Eric Gustafson; six great-grandchildren, Tom Gossett, Jill Gossett, Kristi Hartenberger, Kevin Hartenberger, Dereck Avery, Emma Gustafson. Dorothy is preceded in death by her parents; husband; great granddaughter, Amy Hartenberger; brother, Robert Bownas; sister, Edith Stone; and son in-law, Edward Klein.

A memorial for Dorothy will be established with Northern Illinois Hospice in appreciation for their loving care.