Obituaries

April 18, 1970 – September 3, 2026

Some people leave behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, adventure, and a presence that simply can never be replaced. Alex was one of those people. It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Alex Gustafson. On September 3, 2026, Alex tragically passed away at just 56 years old.

Known affectionately by many as Big Al, Blasty, and Noodle. Alex was truly one of a kind, he left an unforgettable mark on the people lucky enough to know him. Alex was born in Red Deer, Alberta on April 18th, 1970, and moved to Grande Prairie with his family when he was in grade 6 (1981). Grande Prairie then became home for Alex, where he built his life, his business, and most importantly, his family.

Alex was known for his extremely hard work ethic. From a very young age Alex could be found working or learning a new skill, which is how he made his dreams become a success. In 1988, Alex started taking Auto Body courses at Red Deer College, he then worked in auto body shops for a period of time. Not long after, he acquired a job with Destiny Drilling where he gained the opportunity to work for 6 months in Venezuela. Here began the spark of travel and adventure for Alex. This opportunity gave Alex many memories he loved to share. At the age of 24 Alex not only discovered a love for painting heavy duty equipment, but he had an eye for detail when it came to painting. Alex spent many years building his businesses in sandblasting and painting. His hard-working nature was simply part of who he was. It just goes to show when Alex cared about something, he gave it everything he had.

He shared an amazing 28 years together with his wife Alison. Alex and Alison met in 1996 at the Crown and Anchor pub. On December 31, 1999, as the world was counting down to Y2K, Alison and Alex were celebrating something much more important, the beginning of their marriage. Together they had 3 amazing daughters, and Alex did not hesitate to tell everyone how proud he was of them. In 2001, Alex and Alison welcomed their oldest daughter Joah into the world. Shortly after Anna Ireland came along in 2004, and was followed by their youngest daughter Jorja, in 2006, completing their family. Nothing put a bigger smile on Alex’s face other than seeing his girls do what they loved. He was an amazing father, loving, caring, and deeply proud. His family knew how much they meant to him, and being a husband and father was one of the greatest parts of Alex’s life.

In 2015, Alex discovered a passion for hot air ballooning. What began as a new adventure became a special part of his life and another way for him to experience life to the fullest. There is nothing more that Alex loved than a true adventure.

At only 56 years old, there should have been so much more time; more stories, more adventures, more laughs, more balloon rides, and more memories to make. While his life ended far sooner than any of us were ready for, the life he lived and the love he gave will continue through the people who knew and loved him.

We will remember Alex for his work ethic, his big heart, his love for his family, the life he built, and the many stories and memories that could only belong to someone like him.

He was deeply loved, and he will be deeply missed.

When Alex arrived in Heaven, we know he was welcomed with open arms by his daughter, Anna Ireland; his father, Arthur Gustafson; and his mother, Aileen Grimsrud. There is comfort in knowing that after so much time apart, they are together again.

Alex’s love will be carried out by Murray, Alison, Joah, Jorja, and countless relatives and friends.

A memorial service for Alex will be held at Peoples Church, Grande Prairie on November 10th at 2:00pm.

The family would love to have one last Celebration for Alex, which will be held following the service. More information to follow.

Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home bcfh.ca 780 882-9249