Thomas Gustman

Thomas P. Gustman - Age 90, passed away in Appleton on June 12, 2023. He was born on Oct. 25, 1932, to Arthur August Gustman and Helen Gustman (Hunt). He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Sharon, best known as Suzy (Arnold) Gustman, with whom he was united in marriage on April 6, 1953. Tom has been described by many as a kind, generous, and humble man with an open door policy for family, friends, and business associates alike. He was an attentive listener and a gifted problem solver. He was also an animated story teller! He loved to tell stories about his “ferocious” dog Skip, his animated childhood, and his father, Arthur, who established the Gustman Automotive dealerships in 1929 that Tom was so devoted to. After graduating from Lawrence University, Tom went to Syracuse University to work on his Master’s degree. He was then drafted into the army where he served as a clerk. Following his service, he returned to Seymour to work for his father’s dealership and his life-long love for the business began. He later returned to his hometown of Kaukauna to work at that dealership. His dedication and knack for taking care of people helped to grow the Gustman Automotive business. He played an integral role in the formation of Midwest Car Corporation in 1957 which developed into the opening of the first National Car Rental location operated by that corporation in 1968. The company expanded to more than 11 states and eventually included Alamo Car Rental as well. On the dealership end, Gustman Honda and Gustman Subaru, both in Appleton, were added to the automotive family. Tom was known to say that he never worked a day in his life because he loved what he did so much! He was present at the dealerships daily and cruised the parking lots on Sundays, just to make sure that everything was okay. He maintained an office up until a few months before he passed. He knew all of the employees’ names and greeted them by name as he visited each of the departments several times each day. He considered everyone who worked for him as a part of his family. Tom was also passionate about his family! He was present at every family meal, sporting event, and dance recital. He enjoyed taking family trips and family events. He had a warm and open heart for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a life-long baseball fan, enjoyed golf, and bridge. Obviously, he was an avid Green Bay Packers fan; he was even known to write the head coach with a few tips following a tough loss. Tom was the kind of man that touched many lives and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and humility! Tom is survived by his wife: Suzy; children: Jeff (Gail) Gustman, Mike (Jan) Gustman, Kelli Gustman, and Andrea (Jim) Maher; grandchildren: Aaron (Shelby) Gustman, Matthew (Amanda) Gustman, Melissa (John) Biesterveld, Jeremy (Rachael) Gustman, Tyler Gustman, Hallie Gustman, Nathaniel Prast, Alexandra Prast, Thomas Maher, and Nicholas Maher; great-grandchildren: Quentin, Lauren, Thomas, Jacob, Zoey, Riley, Kobe, Austin, Ahriana, Xander, Emery, Kai, and Leo; sisters-in-law: Sally Gustman and Barb Arnold, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers: James and David Gustman. In keeping with the wishes of the family, a private service was held for Tom. For online condolences please visit: www.verkuilenfh.com. In lieu of flowers a memorial is being established.

VERKUILEN-VAN DEURZEN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 101 Canal St., Little Chute, 920-788-3321, www.verkuilenfh.com