CHRISTIANSON - Arthur Gustav was born on August 3, 1925 and peacefully passed away on December 29, 2012, at the age of 87 years. Art is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Jane (Bunty), children Ron (Dianne), Ray (Dianna), Judy, Sandy (Doug) Cherry, grandchildren Neil (Renae), Steven, Shawn, Kyle, Joshua, Nicole, great-grandchildren Ashley, Bradley, Autumn, brothers Henry (Enus), Marvin (Gerry-Lou), sister Ethel Fowles, sister-in-law Clara and numerous extended family and friends. Art was predeceased by his father Lars, mother Inga, brother Carl and sister Linnea Goldsmith.
Art was born in Tannas Sweden and began his life in Canada at age three when he, his father, mother and brother Carl made the long journey to New Hazleton BC. From there, the family settled in the Peace Country where they farmed the land until moving to Prince George. It is here that Art and Bunty met and together grew deep roots in the community while raising their family. Their life was full of outdoor adventure and exploring - there wasn’t a lake or road in Northern BC that Art hadn’t boated or travelled. Prince George remained Art’s home until his passing.
To describe Art, one would need to include so many words…he was a man of integrity and courage; he was a gentleman, warrior, mentor and teacher; he was hard-working, dedicated, humble and gentle; he was a loving family man. Art took great pride in his career choice of lumberman, working with Rustad Brothers before building his own mill – Nechako Lumber – which continues to thrive in Vanderhoof, BC. After his retirement from the lumber industry, Art spent much of his later years working with Central Homes as he oversaw the building of many communities throughout Northern British Columbia. While Art had a true passion for the outdoors and travelling to foreign countries, his greatest passion was his family. Art touched all who were fortunate enough to know him and was loved by many - it gives his family great comfort to know his loving spirit lives on. “There will come a time when you believe everything is finished; that will be the beginning.” A quote from Art’s favorite author Louis L’Amour.
The family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all of the staff, nurses and doctors at Simon Fraser Lodge and UHNBC, who cared for our father throughout his courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. We also send a very special thanks to his personal caregivers for their loving care and support. There will be a Celebration of Art’s life to be held in the Spring, at which time a formal announcement will be made. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Parkinson’s Society of British Columbia.