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BORN
1931
DIED
2025
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Walter Sundstrom Obituary
May 7, 1931 - February 25, 2025
Dr. Walter Roach Sundstrom of Madison, 93 passed away peacefully on February 25, 2025.
Walter was born on May 7, 1931 in Danville, Ill. to H. Walter and Charlotte Sundstrom. He graduated from Father Ryan High School in Nashville, Tenn. and St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa. While attending St. Ambrose, he met his future wife Patricia Ann (nee Duffy) Sundstrom. They were married at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Davenport on August 7, 1954 and shared a long and devoted partnership until Pat's passing in October 2023.
Walter went on to graduate from the Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University in Chicago, Ill. and completed his training in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology at the Hines VA Hospital in Chicago and Saint Francis Hospital in Evanston, Ill. He then proudly served for three years in the U.S, Army Medical Command after which he had a combined appointment to the William S. Middleton Veterans Hospital and the University of Wisconsin School of Public Health and Medicine. He was a member of the section of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology retiring in 1999 as Emeritus Professor of Medicine.
Walter is survived by his four children, Maureen, Eric (Deborah), Karen D'Aluisio (Joseph) and Gregory (Lisa). He was a beloved grandfather to seven grandchildren and great-grandfather to eight. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; his son Steven; and his sister Virginia Jackson.
Walter was a long-time member of Our Lady Queen of Peace parish in Madison and dedicated his life to serving others through medicine and mentorship. Throughout his career he authored or co-authored many articles published in medical journals and after his retirement, he co-founded the Benevolent Specialists Project Free Clinic to provide care to those in need.
Arrangements are being handled by Ryan Funeral Homes. The Funeral Mass followed by the Rite of Committal and interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the charity of your choice. To view and sign the guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
2418 N Sherman Ave
608-249-8257
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Walter Sundstrom
Sponsored by Ryan Funeral Home - North Side Chapel - Madison.
2 Entries
John pav
March 3, 2025
Walt, One of my heroes. Only know one other man as good as him. Several fishing trips with best friends Leo and Walt. Both exceptional men. RIP Walt
Mark Katz
March 2, 2025
What an amazing physician, and person! He was my attending physician 45 years ago, and I learned so much from him--not just rheumatology, and not just all of medicine, but the fine art of doctoring! Gratefully--Mark Katz, MD, Los Angeles
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Ryan Funeral Home - North Side Chapel - Madison2418 N. Sherman Ave., Madison, WI 53704
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