Deseret News | Family works together to cope with car crash, deaths of 3 loved ones

Reader comments
Family works together to cope with car crash, deaths of 3 loved ones

Nan B.W. | 7:47 a.m. March 1, 2009

I don't know this family, but I hope that if I were their neighbor, I would be there to lend emotional support for a long time to come, as in years.
I can pray for them, and I am. This is a tough experience, no matter how good and how faithful the survivors may be.

Sharon Tidwell | 11:57 a.m. March 1, 2009

I am so grateful for the times I got to spend with Luanne. Every time I saw her she always had a smile. I can definitely see why her family called her their personal cheerleader. My prayers are with the Gustafson family and they have my full support.

B. Gustafson | 12:05 p.m. March 1, 2009

To my cousins and uncle and the rest of my family, I would like to say 'I love you.' In the moment when a family was torn apart, I was able to see them brought together in a way that I could never describe. They hold on to the hope of being reunited as a family one day.
I would also like to say 'Thank you' to the hard work and care of the many doctors and nurses at the hospital in Lander, Wyoming. Also a special thanks to the local church leaders there, especially Bishop Irene and his wife for their hospitality in opening their home to Eric and his family.
Thank you to all for your thoughts and prayers. May God bless each of you and especially Dan, Eric, Karina and Gary, the children of Jaret and Diane, and Elise, Elizabeth, Elaura, Christopher and Elyssa, the children of Eric and Luanne.

Comments continue below

Stephanie | 2:05 p.m. March 1, 2009

I knew her personally, and she is everything they are saying about her. She was one of those cheerful happy giving people that really make a difference. If anyone knows the song "She" from Women of Destiny- that was Luanne.

let us all | 2:37 p.m. March 1, 2009

be thankful for what we have and may the love be shared toward these fine people.Life is precious.

Vona Williams | 3:04 p.m. March 1, 2009

My prayers and my heart go out to this dear family. After losing one member of our family in a tragic accident, I can't even imagine how you can go on after the loss of three. We pray that there will be friends, family, and neighbors to provide enough support to make it through the tough times ahead.

Trish | 4:30 p.m. March 1, 2009

I have had the great opportunity of rubbing shoulders with this great family. I have taught three of the Gustafson children in elementary school. My thoughts and prayers have been with them ever since I heard the news. I know in my heart that they will find the inner strength they need to cope with such a difficult tragedy. They will make their mother proud!

Nate | 4:44 p.m. March 1, 2009

Our prayers go out to this family. Sounds like they are great people and have done alot of good. May our Savior comfort them in their time of need.

DennyG | 5:40 p.m. March 1, 2009

Some wonderful people have left us. There will be a void in many peoples lives. I'm so sorry for the loss. I've know this family for over 50 years.

Robyn | 9:02 p.m. March 1, 2009

My love goes to the family. LuAnn was a wonderful person. She loved her children more than life. He children were wonderful kids. We will miss her.

Trisha Beck | 10:14 a.m. March 2, 2009

Eric,Thank you for sharing your wife; kids, thank you for sharing your mom with so many others. LuAnn was so bubbly and always ready and willing to volunteer and help when needed. LuAnn exemplified service.

Marilyn Bennett | 1:28 p.m. March 2, 2009

Ever since I heard of the accident I have not been able to get your family off my mind. LuAnn was so very wonderful to me and I have so many wonderful memories of the talks we had together. Eric my heart goes out to you and just know we are praying for you and your family. There are no words that can properly express our concern and sympathy for you and your family. We love you all

Lisa Wilson | 9:20 p.m. March 2, 2009

Dear Lona Mae and family, My deepest condolences and utmost sympathies at this most difficult time. Words cannot express! I love you Lona Mae, as does your young friend "Patient Services". You are never far from our thoughts.

Jeanie Baldwin | 9:25 p.m. March 3, 2009

Dear Aunt Lona Mae,
What a sad time this is for you. The loss of LuAnne is so untimely and unexpected. I wish I could have known her the way so many did. She sounds like a true friend and an amazing mother. But, then, it's an inherited trait. My love and heartfelt condolences to your entire family.
Jeanie Baldwin

Robins Family | 3:08 p.m. March 4, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with this family at this time. LuAnn truly was a "superwoman" and will be greatly missed by family, friends and the community for her generosity and service to all.
We Love you guys. The Robins

Ray and Pat Youngberg | 5:48 p.m. March 4, 2009

Dear Eric and Family, we are saddened by the news of your family. We know that Heavenly Father will bless those that have passed away and He will give you comfort and peace at this time.
We hope that we will see you this summer at the reunion. Love, your cousins, Ray and Pat Youngberg.

Manuel & Trina Iakopo & Family | 6:57 p.m. March 6, 2009

To our American Family,
-the Gustafsons-
We are deeply sorry for your loss. LuAnne has been a great Mum to us, she is everything you could wish for in a Mum. She is selfless and beautiful in every way. Although we are miles apart We wish we were there in person to be with you all. Eric and family May the Lord bless you with the comfort and strength you need. We love you very much and miss you all.

Love Always
Trina & Manuel Iakopo
Sydney - Australia

Cheryl & Alo Fau & Family | 4:17 p.m. March 7, 2009

To my dear family across the way ...
Words can not express how sad I am feeling right now. We are deeply sorry for your loss, and know that LuAnne was a great person, a great friend, and the best mom anyone could ask for.
Eric you have been there for us since we were young, and now its my turn to pay back the favour. Know that we love you all and are thinking about you at this time. I know that we would like to be there with you but unfortunately we cannot. May the lord comfort you all through this time, and know we love and miss you all so much.

Love always
Cheryl & family & Tai Akaiti and his family
Melbourne, Australia

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