Obituaries

Condolences

• 

  March 02, 2025

  Daniel G Malone

  As do many physicians, I consider Walt a role model. He hired me in 1987 into the Rheumatology section at UW Madison, where I stayed for 23 years. Walt was old school, which is to say, he was a doctor's doctor. To him the patient's well-being always came first, as is clearly stated in the 2000+ year-old original Hippocratic Oath. He cared about all patients, not only those who could pay, so he and Dr. Ernie Pellegrino co-founded the Specialty Care Free Clinic, which to this day provides care free of charge to hundreds of people every year, who cannot afford medical care, sadly an ever-growing portion of our population. It is tempting to invoke the clichè "They don't make 'em like Walt any more", but fortunately, because of the influence on trainees of doctors like him, they still do make them like that. You will find that doctors whose patients adore them had a mentor like Walt. Of course, I extend sympathies to his family, but at the same time I recognize that he lived his life as a caring, religious, principled man who not only cared, but translated his care for patients into actions that benefit many, and the free clinic is proof. RIP Walt, you were an inspiration. Daniel G. Malone MD

• March 02, 2025

  Joseph Bellissimo, MD

  When I was in medical school and residency in the late 1980's and early 1990's, Dr. Sundstrom was was of the great educators in the Medical School and the Department of Medicine. He was also one of the core physicians at the VA Hospital who made that place work for the Veterans. Those physicians were the prototype of the kind of physician I could only hope to be. Be assured, he has left a great legacy. Joseph A. Bellissimo, MD

• March 02, 2025

  Beth Brady Shipley

  Dear Sundstrom Family - As one of the Brady bunch, I grew up attending Queen of Peace Church and School. As a new, young Mother, I developed joint symptoms that were quite debilitating. After many visits with orthopedic physicians, and several knee surgeries, I was finally diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. That was when your dear Dad/Grandfather, the Dr. Sundstrom that I knew from the pews of QP, came into my life as my Rheumatologist. Finally, I had a diagnosis, and a Doctor who was able to help improve the quality of my life. Most important to my treatment was the steady kindness and understanding that Dr. Sundstrom provided to me and my family. Your Dad was soo wonderful. When my husband accepted a job out-of-state, leaving your Dad's care was really tough. 50 years later, I still fight the battle, and I still think, "what would Dr. Sundstrom suggest?" God bless you on your eternal journey, Dr. Sundstrom, and on behalf of your patients, thank you for your gentle care. Beth Brady Shipley

• February 28, 2025

  Jon Arnason

  Dear Sundstrom Family, I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Walter Sundstrom when I joined the University of Wisconsin's Department of Medicine as an internal medicine trainee from Iceland. My aspiration was to become a rheumatologist, and Dr. Sundstrom, whom I later came to know as Walt, became my mentor, colleague, trusted advisor, and friend. No other physician or mentor has had as profound an impact on me as Dr. Sundstrom. Even now, 35 years later, I strive to emulate his excellence as a physician. Walt exemplified unwavering dedication and a strong work ethic. He consistently sought to enhance his knowledge and skills, remained open to new developments in medicine, and generously offered guidance to his colleagues. Even after his retirement, I frequently sought and greatly valued his advice. Though Walt had a commanding presence, strong voice, and assertive demeanor at work, he was fundamentally kind and caring, always giving his best to patients, learners, and colleagues. He shared a deep bond with Pat, and when her health declined, he took on the role of her caretaker and protector. The last time I saw them together, they graciously donated his old and classic textbooks to the UW rheumatology fellows to benefit future rheumatologists. Sincerely, Jon Arnason, MD

• February 28, 2025

  Christie M Bartels

  Dear Sundstrom Family, Your beloved father was beloved by so many patients and partners and his legacy shines. He was a mentor to my mentors and trusted colleagues including Drs. Carloyn Bell, Alan Bridges and Jon Arnason. Each has shared stories with me over the years and with our colleagues and fellows this week telling of Walt's professionalism, kindness, steadfast leadership, and volunteer service after retiring. His early career mentoring of Carolyn led to her mentoring me. I am deeply grateful for his legacy as leader of our UW Rheumatology Division which now has 14 doctors and 3 APPs. Please know that we hold him and your family in highest regard. We hope that these memories multiply your joy and soften your sorrow in losing him after a life so well-lived. With Gratitude, Christie Bartels, MD MS UW Rheumatology Chief

• February 28, 2025

  Carolyn L Bell

  Dear Sundstrom Family, I am a close colleague of Walt who worked with him from 1980 until he retired and saw him after he retired. You should know that Walt was a superb physician, kind man and one who grew in his understanding of the role of women in medicine. When I, a young woman, came from Boston as his first hire for the section of Rheumatology, it took a while for him to recognize me as an equal. Over the years the respect and friendship between us grew. He developed the Section of Rheumatology into a respected, successful section of the Department of Medicine. We saw each other over the years and I visited with him at All Saints. He always was glad to see me and asked about the section and how it was doing and never forgot to ask about my family. As I left the last time I saw him, he walked me to the door and introduced me to the nurses as his colleague AND as his daughter. He often was confused when I visited but in a way, as a young colleague, he mentored me when I needed it, much like a father to a child. Perhaps, he was thinking of that. I will miss Walt, as will his patients, fellows and residents who he taught. Thinking of you in your grief. Sincerely, Dr. Carolyn L. Bell