Valerie J. Kunstman

Valerie J. Kunstman obituary

Valerie J. Kunstman

Valerie Kunstman Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Valley Funeral Home - Appleton on Aug. 13, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Valerie Jean Kunstman, 79, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Born on May 19, 1946, Valerie's journey began with a curious mind and a vibrant spirit. She attended Clintonville schools and went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. A joyful soul with a deep love for words, Valerie found solace and inspiration in reading and writing poetry. Her life was painted in vivid hues filled with travel, magical encounters, and an unwavering passion for thrifting.

Valerie's spiritual path was as rich and varied as her worldly adventures. A devoted student of religious philosophy, she embraced both Catholicism and Mormonism throughout her life. Her faith was not confined to doctrine but expressed through compassion, wonder, and the way she cherished each moment.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Cindy Haut Christie and son-in-law David Christie; sons David Timberlake and Ray Walters; grandchildren Jessica, Jacob, Brittani, Callie, Seth, and Dalton; step-grandson Colin with his wife Amber and their two children. Her heart carried the memories of those who preceded her: her beloved husband Christ Kunstman; daughter Katherine Haut; parents Thelma Bessett Steward and Harold Steward; siblings Carol Soufal, Linda Steward, Jim Steward, William Steward, and Robert Steward.

In accordance with her wishes, Valerie's ashes will be spread along the breathtaking coastline of Big Sur, California, a place she held dear for its beauty and peace together with the ashes of her beloved husband Christ.

Her laughter lingers like a melody on the wind; her love endures in every heart she touched. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Valerie's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Valerie Kunstman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Valerie Kunstman's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?