Former Ace Mart Leader Paul Gustafson Remembered

It is with great sadness that FEDA shares news of the unexpected passing of Paul Gustafson on Feb. 4. He was a former president of Ace Mart Restaurant Supply and a longtime FEDA board member and a past chairman.

Gustafson retired in 2025 after a 50-year career in the foodservice equipment and supplies industry. He was a second-generation owner of Ace Mart and served as the San Antonio-based distributor’s president until 2021, after which he moved into an advisory role. FEDA honored Gustafson at the Chairman’s Lunch during the 2025 FEDA Annual Executive Leadership Conference last September. He was presented with an award recognizing his outstanding leadership, years of service to the association, and the many ways he strengthened FEDA and the foodservice equipment and supplies industry.

In addition to his immeasurable impact on the industry and Ace Mart, Gustafson was a Special Olympics coach for 25 years, known for encouraging athletes to do their very best on and off the field or court.

A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m. CT on Monday, Feb. 16, at Community Bible Church in San Antonio. Those planning to attend the reception that follows are asked to RSVP here. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to Reaching Maximum Independence or the Safire Recreation Center.