Gary Gust and his wife, Lolly. Gary will be the 2011 grand marshal at the Red Flannel Festival.

The Red Flannel Festival Board of Directors announced last week that they have chosen Cedar Springs resident Gary Gust as the 2011 Grand Marshal for the 72nd Annual Celebration, to be held on Saturday, October 1, 2011.
“The Festival is extremely proud and thankful for the many years of Gary’s outstanding dedication to the entire Cedar Springs community,” said Michele Tracy-Andres, President of the Festival. “His fabulous community service in several organizations, and strong support of the Festival are very impressive and just what we look for in a Red Flannel Grand Marshal. It’s very obvious Gary loves Cedar Springs and the Red Flannel Festival!”
Gust has been a prominent leader in the community, volunteering his time to several organizations in youth sports and helped found the Athletic Boosters in 1981, as well as being the first President of the Boosters. He has supported the Festival for many years, including participating in numerous 5K Run events.
“We have always enjoyed Red Flannel Day, but this year will be extra special,” said Gust. “We always look forward to all the festivities. We’ve done it for years, but will do it up close this year.”
Gust remarked that he felt quite honored to have been chosen. “I hope I can live up to the expectations,” he said.
Gust attended Cedar Springs High School, and went on to Ferris State University, where he played tennis and met his wife, Lolly. Gary owned Gust Construction Company from 1979 until 2009. Today, he and Lolly enjoy their four grandchildren, harness horse racing and traveling around the world hunting.
To donate to the Red Flannel Festival, an independent, non-profit 501(c)3 organization, view the Festival’s website at www.redflannelfestival.org or mail to RFF, PO Box 43, Cedar Springs, MI 49319.