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IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Karen
Gust
March 20, 1942 – October 5, 2025
Obituary
Karen's greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. She had a rare and special gift--the ability to make everyone around her feel loved and appreciated. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for those closest to her.
Born and raised in Milwaukee, Karen graduated from Rufus King High School. She later married the love of her life, Richard "Dick" Gust, and together made their home in Mequon where they raised their family. In 1976, the family purchased a cozy cottage on Big Cedar Lake in West Bend, a place that quickly became a beloved retreat. In 1994, they purchased their permanent lake home, where they hosted countless celebrations filled with warmth, laughter, and Karen's signature hospitality—always making sure everyone was "properly spoiled."
After Dick's unexpected passing in 2007, Karen found comfort and companionship in her sister Janet Rost, who lovingly shared her home for the next 17 years.
Karen is survived by her two sons: Jeff (Karen) Gust and Brian (Biffy) Gust, five grandchildren: Lauren (Larry) Southern, Alex Gust, Caroline (Sean) Riley, Josephine Gust and Jacob Gust and six great-grandchildren: Larry, Cameron, Ethan, Dominik, Patrick and the newest addition, Connor. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.
Karen is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dick; her parents; and her sister Janet.
Services will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at St. Peter Catholic Church (200 W. Washington St. Slinger, Wisconsin) with Fr. Richard Stoffel presiding. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. followed by a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 10:45 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Make-A-Wish Wisconsin ( Make-A-Wish® Wisconsin )
Services
Visitation
St Peter Catholic Church
9:00 - 10:30 am
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial
St Peter Catholic Church
Starts at 10:45 am
Karen Gust's Guestbook
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