Ahlstrom, Gustav Efraim In Clarksburg, California, celebrated his 90th birthday with his family on June 2, 2010, then departed this world early the following morning. Born in Selma, California June 2, 1920, Gus was one of six children born to Swedish immigrants Malin and Efraim Ahlstrom of Kingsburg, California. While serving his country during WWII in the U.S. Navy, Gus married Betty Jean Bell whom he met at the California State Fair. Betty and Gus were married for 53 years before cancer claimed Betty. Gus married again on St. Valentine's Day 1997 to Mary Ann Vanier. They remained happily married until Gus' passing. Gus would be proud to say that his legacy was built on a replenishing foundation of rich, bountiful dirt. He founded and successfully led a respected pipeline construction company in the Sacramento area for over 40 years. He took an eight-year break from the pipeline business to plow new ground as a rancher and farmer in Idaho, then returned to California to establish Ahlstrom Construction with his two sons Steve and Scott. During the final chapter of his life he planted, cultivated and nurtured his own Chardonnay and Merlot vineyards in the Sacramento Delta in Clarksburg. Each venture mirrored his successful dedication to working hard toward the creation of something significant where nothing previously existed. A perfect day for Gus would be spent in the sun, on a tractor, watching over the fruits of his labor. Gus is survived by his wife Mary Ann; three sons: Craig (Peggy), Steve (Debbie) and Scott (Holli); six grandchildren: Mike (Wendy), Heather (Blake), Scottie (Ashleigh), Logan, Aric, and Erin; plus seven great-grandchildren: Berkeley, Bennett, Emma, Isaiah, Luna, Koda, and Brogan, along with many nieces and nephews. Special recognition should also be granted Moose, Gus' dog who remained his faithful companion until the end. Friends are welcome for Visitation Wed., June 9th from Noon to 4PM in the East Lawn Elk Grove Mortuary, 9189 E. Stockton Blvd., Elk Grove (916) 732-2031 followed by a Rosary at 6PM in St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 32890 So. River Rd., Clarksburg. A funeral service will be on Thursday at 10AM in St. Joseph's Church. Private interment will follow. Donations in honor of Gus' memory should be directed to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 2425 Stockton Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95817. Published in The Sacramento Bee on June 6, 2010