Garnet Margaret Runstrom

Garnet Margaret Runstrom, age 96, of Zeeland, passed away on January 21, 2026.

Garnet was born on January 5, 1930, in Conklin, Michigan, to Cornelis and Barbara (Schaefer) Wiltenburg. She was a graduate of Sparta High School. Garnet later married the love of her life, Raymond Runstrom. Together, they built their life in the Grand Rapids area while also wintering in sunny Florida, which allowed them to enjoy golfing together year-round. Garnet had a long career at AT&T (formerly Michigan Bell).

In her later years, she found joy in playing cards and solving puzzles, cherishing both time spent with friends and family. A devoted member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids for many years, she recently found a welcoming community at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Holland, where her faith continued to be an integral part of her life.

Garnet is survived by her nieces and nephews: David Bouwkamp, Betty Poppema, Mary Schutte, Shawna Bouwkamp, Barbara Buescher, Vicki Schallhorn, Robert Wiltenburg, Arlo Wiltenburg Jr., Linda Napper, Kevin Wiltenburg, John Wiltenburg, Mary Kathryn Steenrod, David Runstrom, Thomas Runstrom, Virginia Campbell, James Runstrom, and Eric Runstrom.

Garnet was preceded in death by her husband Raymond Runstrom in 2005; as well as by her siblings: Delores & Willis Bouwkamp, Melvin & Shirley Wittenburg, Arlo & Barbara Wittenburg; and nieces: Patty Yancey, Mary Wittenburg, Linda Wilcox; and nephew, Richard Runstrom.

Services for Garnet are being planned for a later date. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Grand Rapids. Memorial contributions may be given to Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in 3151 120th Ave. Holland, MI 49424.

Arrangements are by Yntema Funeral Home, 251 South State St. Zeeland, MI 49464. To leave condolences online, please visit, www.yntemafh.com.