Don A. Gustine

Don Andrew Gustine, 91, formerly of Jacksonville, passed away Monday, July 3, 2023, at OSF Hospital in Bloomington.

Don was born in Greenfield on Nov. 19, 1931, the son of Harley and Pearl Gustine. He married Elizabeth Delephene Stone in Greenfield, on June 28, 1952, and she preceded him in death in 2020. Together, they raised 4 children, and spoiled their 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

Surviving are his children, Angie (Mark) Homer of Jacksonville, Stan (Becky) Gustine of Normal, Jill Lambert of Normal, and Kim Clauson of Johnsburg. His grandchildren are Whitney (Chanse) Barker of Payson; Andy (Lauren) Homer of Alexander; Adam (Ann) Gustine of South Bend, IN; Abby (Brian) Larsen, of Bloomington; Madi and Grace Lambert of Jacksonville, FL; and Jack and Cody Clauson of Johnsburg. His great-grandchildren are Tate and Ella Barker; Wren Homer; Josiah, Levi, and Nina Gustine; and Micah Larsen; and step great-grandsons, Tyler and Lane Barker. He was also preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Harlene (Nelson) Johnessee.

Don graduated from Greenfield High School in 1948, where he lettered in track and football. Upon graduation, he joined the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, and served during the Korean War. He received his Bachelor's Degree from Western IL University and began his career in education at Greenfield High School. While there, he taught Industrial Arts and coached multiple sports, primarily football. During his tenure at Greenfield High, he completed his Master's Degree from Southern IL University. Later, he moved on to teach at Illinois College, in Jacksonville, where he also coached football, along with track and swimming. He spent a year teaching P.E. and coaching football at Rushville High School before returning to Jacksonville to teach P. E. and coach football at Turner Jr. High. Later, he taught Driver's Ed. and coached track and football at Jacksonville High School, retiring in 1993.

In his retirement, Don enjoyed golf and wood working. He was a life-long sports enthusiast (even partnering with friend Gale Waltrip to open Don and Gale's Sports Shop in the 70's) and a loyal fan of his St. Lous Cardinals.

Visitation will be on Sun., Aug. 6, at 1:00 pm, at Shields-Bishop Funeral Home in Greenfield, with funeral services to follow at 2 pm. Burial, at Rose Hill Cemetery west of Greenfield, will follow services.

Memorials are suggested to Rose Hill Cemetery, Greenfield Tiger Backers, or the Alzheimer's Association and may be left or mailed to Shields-Bishop Funeral Home. Please, leave online memories or condolences at shields-bishopfh.com.

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