Gustav "Gus" J. WAFFEN III

Gustav J. Waffen, III, “Gus,” age 84, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2026, surrounded by family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Evelyn (nee Young), with whom he shared 42 years of marriage.

Family was at the heart of Gus’s life. He shared a close bond with his siblings, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews and treasured the time they spent together. He is survived by his children, Michael Waffen (Beth), Lisa Villao (Fred), and Jennifer Maceiko (Patrick); and his cherished grandchildren, Dylan, Haylie, and Charlotte.

Gus had a lifelong passion for astronomy and generously volunteered for many years at the Mueller Observatory at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, where he enjoyed sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with others. Whether studying the night sky, volunteering in his community, or spending time with family and friends, Gus approached life with kindness, humor, and a deep sense of wonder.

Family and friends are invited to attend Visitation on October 28, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at The Zabor Funeral Home, 5680 Pearl Rd. Parma, OH 44129 (BETWEEN RIDGE AND SNOW ROADS).  A brief prayer service will conclude the visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

A private family burial will follow honoring Gus’s service in the US Army National Guard.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to family, neighbors, friends, Dad’s doctors, Vitalia Memory Care in North Royalton, and Suncrest Hospice for loving and caring for Dad.  Your care and support made all the difference.

A memorial Mass celebrating Gus's life will be held at a later date at his former parish.