Connelaine Gustad

Connelaine Gustad, beloved mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2024, in Kansas City, Missouri. Born November 3, 1944, in Bonner Springs, Kansas, Connelaine was a bright light in her community and an unwavering source of love and support to all who knew her. 

 From a young age, Connelaine’s adventurous spirit and zest for life were evident. At just six years old, she set off to a dance studio on her own, eager to learn tap dancing—a spark of independence that would mark her life. A high school homecoming queen, cheerleader, and member of many school organizations, Connelaine was as much admired for her warmth and charm as for her commitment to service. 

Her crowning as Miss Bonner Springs in 1962 was one of her proudest achievements, and she nearly claimed the title of Miss Kansas—a memory she cherished throughout her life. Connelaine attended Kansas State University, earning her teaching degree and forever remaining a dedicated K-State fan. 

She attended many a games and cheered her wildcats on throughout her life, stopping to chat with anyone who donned the signature purple gear. She had such Wildcat pride. Teaching was Connelaine’s calling. She spent over a decade as a kindergarten teacher, lovingly guiding young hearts and minds. 

Her passion for helping children feel seen, valued, and cared for continued through her later years as a substitute teacher. A follower of Christ, she was devout to her church and her church family at Lenexa United Methodist Church, in Lenexa, Kansas. 

She volunteered at her church in various areas, spreading kindness, compassion, and the word of God wherever she went. Connelaine was married to David Anderson for 21 years, with whom she had two daughters, Heather and Wendy. 

A breast cancer survivor, Connelaine inspired others with her story of running marathons while undergoing chemotherapy, a testament to her indomitable spirit. She completed over 100 races in her lifetime, often placing first, and shared how running brought her peace and courage during life’s most challenging moments. 

 Her love of beauty and celebration was evident in the joyful holiday decorations she created, especially at Christmas, when her entire apartment became a festive wonderland. Connelaine’s warmth extended to every family gathering, where her sparkling eyes, gifts, and radiant smile were a welcome sight. 

She was a devoted fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and KSU football, cheering alongside family and friends. In Joplin, Missouri, she lived through the devastating tornadoes that tore through her neighborhood, a survival story that mirrored her resilience in life’s storms. Her greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren, whose soccer games and musical performances she never missed. 

She delighted in every moment with them, and they, in turn, adored their “Nana.” Connelaine leaves behind her daughters, Heather Anderson and Wendy Pinkerton, and five grandchildren, Isabella Schuber, Asa Schuber, Summer Koetter, Titus Pinkerton, and Gabriel Pinkerton and her younger sister Patty Saragusa . 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Patricia and Robert Stewart; her sister, Vivian Ragland; and her nephew, Jamie Cohan. Her vibrant spirit, unwavering faith, and love for others will forever be remembered by all who knew her. 

A celebration of life and spreading of her ashes will be held in Spring 2025 (date TBD) to honor her legacy. She will be forever missed, but has finally gone home to be with Christ, whom she cherished and was the cornerstone of her life.

To share a memory of Connelaine, or to leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.