Gustavo A. Mestas, esteemed physician
Dr. Gustavo A. Mestas passed away Saturday, Jan. 20, 2018. He blessed us with 91 years which he dedicated to giving of himself to others.
Dr. Mestas leaves behind a family, friends, and former patients who loved him dearly throughout the years - his daughter Ileana Smith and son Rick Mestas; four grandsons, Matt (and Ali), Mike (and Kelli), Ben (and Nicki), and Garrett; seven great-grandchildren, Jagger, Tristin, Olivia, Silas, Wyatt, Sydney and Ryann; and one nephew, Carlos Mestas. He is preceded in death by his wife Ofelia; his son Gus; and his brother Jorge.
He was born to Maria Teresa and Antonio Mestas in Havana, Cuba, July 16, 1926, where he grew up and completed medical school at the University of Havana. In Cuba he worked as an orthopedic surgeon but changed his specialty to family medicine when he came to the United States.
Dr. Mestas made the decision to escape Communist Cuba with his family in 1963. His inspirational story was captured by National Public Radio Story Corps and can be heard online. He had to learn English, pass medical board exams, and redo his residency to practice medicine again. He completed his residency in Georgia, then moved to Delaware and worked as medical director at Stockley Center. In 1969 with the help of friends William Carter and Hiram Lasher, Dr. Mestas opened his private practice and began working a job he loved as Millsboro's family doctor. He was on staff at Beebe Hospital with his lifelong friend Dr. Anis Saliba. He retired in 1997.
Gustavo was one of a kind - intelligent, generous, wise, witty, humble and sharp as a tack. He lived a very full life overcoming challenges with remarkable courage, strength, curiosity and a sense of humor. He kept up with technology, was never too far from his iPad, and was knowledgeable about every topic from world affairs to music to the arts. He adored children, as those blessed to be part of his family know well. He leaves us a shining example of love and generosity.
In lieu of flowers, please send your memories to the family at www.cranstonfuneralhome.com. If you wish to make a donation, please consider your favorite medical charity in his memory. Arrangements by Cranston Funeral Home, Seaford.
