Dr. Gustavo A. Mestas passed away on 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 was 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 on 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 (NPR) 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 life long 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 www.cranstonsfuneralhome.com. If you wish to make a donation please consider your favorite medical charity in his memory.