Hello friends and family of Bob Gustafson,

If you are reading this, you are likely either a friend, former student or family member of our beloved Bob, Bobby G., Uncle Frenchy, and countless other monikers of affection to be sure.

To bring you up to date, at the end of summer Bob was diagnosed with prostate cancer. It is serious and has spread more than we would all hope, but it is thankfully still treatable. He has been receiving hormone replacement therapy with some success, but recently has run into some difficulties. The main difficulty being that he has been trying to continue to teach while receiving treatment. 

This past weekend, Bob was hospitalized as he developed complications from the treatment. It has now become clear to Bob that he needs to take a well deserved break while he focuses on his health. 

If each of us were able to contribute any amount to help him cover day-to-day expenses while he recuperates it would go a long way helping him focus solely on his health. Given how many of us know and love Bob it could add up quickly, letting Bob know how loved and supported he is. 

If you have specific questions, rather than inundating Bob with calls and emails, please contact me (his nephew). I am happy to talk with anyone who shares in their love and concern for Bob (Uncle Frenchy to me!). Additionally, I would be happy if you would send a few (or many) words of encouragement, and will gladly pass them on to Bob.

Respectfully and thankfully yours,

Charles duChateau


Bob is a Chicago native and Indiana University graduate. Bob’s Broadway performing and conducting credits include Cats, Chess, King David, Les Miserables, The Scarlet Pimpernel,and Sunset Boulevard.  Off Broadway and Regionally , he has been a part of Captains Courageous, Elaborate Lives, Fame, The Fine Line and Violet. He has participated in the National Tours of Candide, Cats, 42nd Street and Les Miserables. In addition to composing Joe’s Ballet, Bob has arranged/transcribed music for Chisty Baron, The Mercer Ellington Orchestra, Aida, The Civil War, Elaborate Lives, Fame, The Fine Line, Hot and Sweet, Juliette, Rosemary Loar, Alice Ripley, Barbara Schottenfeld, The Smithsonian Institution, and various short films, videos, and public service announcements.