John Frank Gustafson, long-time rink owner, skater, judge, coach, mentor, and friend to many passed away on August 7, 2024 at the age of 80 from Multi-System Atrophy, or MSA, a rare form of Parkinsons Disease.

John Gustafson leaves behind a skating legacy like no other. His skating career began at the age of 5 in Gresham, Oregon and then at the Oaks Park in Portland, Oregon, where he skated alongside his brothers, Ron and Rick. His parents, Cecil and Florence, were instrumental in the lives of their sons’ skating careers. In 1960, John was the first person to earn his Gold Medal in all four disciplines: Freestyle, Figures, Dance, and Speed, and later earned his Gold Medal in International Dance. Through his competitive career, John won and placed several times at Nationals in Figures, Freestyle, Speed, Freedance and Fours. He purchased a rink in Auburn, Washington in the early 1970’s, which he owned and operated for over 40 years. He taught both Artistic and Speed Skating, was a judge, a referee, meet director (locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally), and traveled with the world teams working for many years. He served on several USARS committees for decades and was on the USARS Board of Directors for 25 years. In 1993, John was inducted into the Roller Skating Coaches Hall of Fame, and in 1996 he was inducted into the Roller Skating Hall of Fame for Distinguished Service. Not only was he busy with skating but was an integral part of his community as well. For 30 years he was actively involved in the Auburn Kiwanis, Auburn Food Bank, and his church. John was dedicated, passionate, and gave of himself for the betterment of his community and the sport he loved so dearly. John passed away at home in Palm Springs, California, leaving behind his legacy of commitment, love, kindness, and perseverance.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 19 at the Oaks Park in Portland, Oregon.