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Anna Marie (Ann) Gustafson (nee Hertel) of River Falls, WI, passed away peacefully and comfortably on June 14, 2026, at Artis Senior Living in Woodbury, MN.
Ann was born September 5, 1943, in Willmar, Minnesota, and grew up in Olivia, Minnesota. She went to St. Paul, MN to attend Macalester College and attain her Social Work Degree. While at college through mutual friends, she met her husband, Bob. They moved to River Falls, WI where they lived for over 50 years. She was a loving wife, mother of three great boys and grandmother of six.
She put her Social Work Degree to work at Pierce and St. Croix Counties as a Victim Witness Coordinator helping many in their most difficult life experiences. She brought her experience and passion for victims and women’s rights to her many volunteer efforts as well. Service to others led her to be a leader of many women’s organizations and to help start organizations to further advocate for and support victim’s rights.
The Church was also a very important part of Ann’s life. She was involved in many committees at the Congregational Church, but her true love was music – singing in the Choir and ringing those bells!
Preceded in death by her husband Bob of 53 years; parents, Milton and Leona (Welk) Hertel; brother Milton Hertel and infant twin siblings. Survived by sons Todd (Barb) Gustafson, Brent (Trina) Gustafson, Kyle (Betty) Gustafson; grandchildren Ryan, Sara, Andy, Evan, Jack, and Louie.
A service celebrating Ann’s life will be on Monday, June 29, 2026 at 11 am at the First Congregational Church 110 N 3rd Street River Falls, WI. Visitation will also be on Monday from 10-11 am at the church. A luncheon will follow the service in the church fellowship hall. Private interment in Greenwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to: the St. Croix Valley Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) or the River Falls American Association of University Women (AAUW) Scholarship Fund.
Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
click here to watch Ann’s service live on Monday at 11 am
6 Comments
Ann was a very special lady. I worked with her when she was at Pierce. County and saw her at trainings. She helped so many through troubled times. Condolences to her family. Cathy Martin
I am saddened by the news of Ann’s passing. She was an incredible woman who has made a profound impact on our community and beyond. I was blessed to have spent time with her as a neighbor, fellow AAUW member, and friend. She will be greatly missed!
I am honored that I had the privilege of meeting Ann in the later part of her life. Her kindness always showed through. I am also honored to follow in her footsteps as another Wisconsin State President. Rest in peace Ann. You’ve left the best of legacies and example for all of us.
Ann was dedicated to the American Association of University Women mission of equity for women and girls at the local, state and national levels. Her leadership skills as branch and state board president were unmatched and her contributions as a mentor, volunteer and advisor were highly valued. She will be remembered fondly as a wonderful AAUW friend!
Ann was a wonderful woman and a terrific mother .
Ann was a wonderful cousin, mother and dedicated to uplifting causes that benefited many people. I always enjoyed visits with her and here high-achieving family!
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