Phillip R. Gaustad

Your father had a heart of gold and everyone who had the privilege to know him are blessed. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.

I was lucky enough to be an across-the-hall neighbor with Phil Gaustad and Barb. He was an early riser and I had happily given up that practice when I retired. Phil is from the generation of considerate gentlemen, so he dropped off my daily morning newspaper after his outside cigar with one of his favorite cats in attendance. I considered that a wonderful gesture of neighborliness so I would quarterly get the most expensive cigar I could find, or a cigar store gift certificate for Phil to reciprocate his kindness. He, in turn, would write a beautiful and humorous thank you note to me which was delightful to read and recall. Phil was widely read and had well-thought-out, firm and refined views on current and past historical and political events. When I sat with him outside in the summer and discussed conflicts and possible solutions to the problems of the world, (we were big thinkers!) I always left with fresh viewpoints that Phil provided. Phil made this world a better and more intriguing place to live. Rest in Peace Phil. Bill Richardson