Gaston "Gus" Cossette, 83, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2024, in Rancho Santa Fe, CA, surrounded by family.

Born in 1941 in Fargo, North Dakota, to Ena Lavalée and Phillip Cossette, Gus was the youngest of seven. He is preceded in death by his parents, his siblings Gertrude Carlson, Agatha Rose, Roland Cossette, Raymond Cossette and Roger Cossette, and survived by brother, Gerald Cossette.

After graduating from Fargo High School in 1959, where he was a celebrated All-American and Football Teen Magazine Athlete of the Year, he later attended North Dakota State University. Adventurous by nature, he packed up and headed to sunny California, where he met the love of his life, Judith Ann Blackburn.

Gus is survived by his wife of 62 years, Judy. Together they raised three children, Cary Cossette, Bryan Cossette (Marleen), and Michelle Cossette Patterson (Alec), in a home filled with love and laughter. Family was everything to Gus. He coached sports, supported each child's activities and logged countless miles supporting all of their endeavors. He was always there for each of them.

Gus was a true entrepreneur and started several businesses. He worked hard and had a remarkable ability to see possibilities come to light. Gus began with used car sales and army surplus. He then purchased International Truck Dealerships before getting into commercial real estate and development, founding Cossette Investment Co., Inc. As a master of negotiation and closing deals, he built a very successful business that spans five states.

When he wasn't running his business, Gus volunteered his time to the Rotary Club of America where he served as President of the West Fresno Rotary Club and was a Paul Harris fellow. Gus was an avid golfer and tennis player with memberships to Sunnyside CC, San Joaquin CC,PGA West and Aspen Glen. Most recently, a member of The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe. Gus also loved his horses, horseback riding, and deep sea fishing.

Gus is remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, and successful businessman. He is also held closely in the hearts of his eight adoring grandchildren: Collin Kelly, Sean Kelly, Tyler Kelly, Kevin Cossette, John Cossette (Tara), Daniel Cossette, Jacqueline Patterson and Colette Patterson. As patriarch of this big family, his influence and impact has been enormous.

Gus and Judy have quite literally travelled the entire world. From early days of non-touristy, non-English speaking France and Italy, to their 50th anniversary world cruise, to a cross-country Prevost bus tour of the US and Canada for two months (where they were often mistaken for little 'ol Shania Twain's tour!), they loved their many unexpected adventures and the memories they created together.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The American Heart Association at heart.org.

Finally, we want to express a special heartfelt thank you to all of his caregivers who provided him with exceptional support and loving care-Carlos, Jake, Lorena, Julie, Lindsey, and Rod.