LaDonna J. (Moore) Gustafson

LaDonna J. (Moore) Gustafson, passed away after a brief illness, on February 25, 2024, at the University Hospital and Clinics in Columbia. 

LaDonna was born on May 24, 1947, in Moberly, Missouri, the daughter of Arthur Henry Moore and Maurita Mae (Sims) Moore. 

She was a dedicated employee, having worked for Penzoil Company in the 1960s and 1970s and later dedicating over three decades to Graf and Sons in Mexico. LaDonna's impact extended far beyond her professional life. Known for her unwavering focus on family, LaDonna treasured every moment spent with her loved ones. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she always ensured she was there for them. She shared a close bond with her siblings and leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

In addition to her successful career and devotion to family, LaDonna had a vibrant personality that endeared her to many. Those who knew her will remember her for the warmth of her hugs and the infectiousness of her laughter. She found joy in reading mystery and suspense books, with James Patterson ranking among her favorite authors.

She is sadly missed and forever remembered by her son David Gustafson and his wife Genevieve, daughters Dierdre Simpson and Jackie Beal; grandchildren Kaleb Mason, Landry Cooney, Jaxon Cooney, Bernadette Simpson, Amelia Simpson, Madison Cooney, Kaitlyn Cooney; great granddaughter, Mila Cooney; her siblings, Ramona Wagner, Kenneth Moore and Rick Jones; sister-in-law, Jodi Moore; her beloved dog, Ace; numerous nieces, nephews, and children adopted in love. 

LaDonna is preceded in death by her parents Arthur Henry Moore and Maurita Mae (Sims) Moore, as well as her son Arthur Gustafson; siblings, Jonathan Moore, Bernie Moore, Charlie Moore, Donovan Moore, Debbie Peterson.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on March 1, 2024, at Fairy Tale Estates 8287 Hwy 15, Mexico, MO 65265. The celebration of LaDonna's life will be from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. as family and friends come together to celebrate a life well-lived. May she rest in peace knowing she was loved by many and that her memory will live on through those who had the privilege of knowing such a remarkable woman.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, c/o Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel 1610 N. Garth Ave. Columbia, MO 65202.

Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Gustafson Family. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of LaDonna J. (Moore) Gustafson, please visit our floral store.