Gregory "Greg" Sundstrom

Gregory “Greg” Sundstrom, 79, of Fort Collins, Colorado, passed away on May 6, 2026, at Poudre Valley Hospital, with loving family by his side. Greg was born on March 27, 1947, in Sturgis, South Dakota, to Charles Samuel Sundstrom and Wyona Florence Sundstrom (Fitzgerald). He spent his early years in Mud Butte, South Dakota, where he developed a deep love of the land, hard work, and family—values that guided him throughout his life.

A gifted student and athlete, Greg graduated at the top of his class in 1965 from Newell High School. The following year, he married his high school sweetheart, Linda, beginning a remarkable partnership that would span 59 years and serve as the foundation of their growing family.

Greg went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from Colorado State University in 1969. After graduation, he returned to his family’s ranch, where he worked and managed operations until 1986. That year, Greg and his family moved to Colorado, where he began a long and impactful career with the Colorado State Forest Service. Living in Wray, Brush, and ultimately Fort Collins, Greg dedicated his professional life to forest stewardship, nursery management, and wildfire mitigation. He retired in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of service and care for Colorado’s natural resources.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Greg was a man defined by his character, generosity, and deep love for others. He opened his home to many over the years and was known for his willingness to help anyone in need—no questions asked. It did not matter who you were; Greg treated everyone with the same respect, kindness, and dignity.

Greg found great joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments. He and Linda traveled extensively, proudly visiting all fifty states. He cherished time with family and friends, especially during holidays and celebrations. He loved walks with his grandchildren, playing poker, singing karaoke, carving walking sticks, and spending time in nature.

Whether sharing stories, offering advice, or simply listening, Greg took every opportunity to pass along his knowledge, humor, and wisdom. Whenever possible, he could be found in his cowboy hat and boots—an enduring symbol of his roots.

Above all, Greg was devoted to his family. He was deeply proud of his children and grandchildren, and he made it clear through his words and actions that they meant everything to him. He was a remarkable husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, neighbor, and friend—a true gentleman whose presence made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Greg is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Linda Sundstrom; his children, Trista (Cody) Meininger, Jolyn (Chad) Henneck, and Sam (Jeremy) Sundstrom; honorary daughter, Phalen (Levi) Smith; grandchildren Kaitlyn (Taylor) Barrett, Kristeena Meininger, Jacob and Nicholas Henneck, and LJ Smith; his siblings, Lavee (Rodney) DeGarlais and Reva (Doug) Cox; brother-in-law Melvin (Charlean) Swanson; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Marjorie and Angela; and his in-laws, Glendon and Lois Swanson.

Greg’s life was a testament to what it means to be a good human being—to live with integrity, generosity, and unwavering love for others. The world has lost a truly special man, but his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.

Greg requested no formal memorial service. If you would like to make a memorial donation in Greg’s name, please send to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Mud Butte Fire Dept c/o Larry Schuelke, 16384 US Highway 212, Mud Butte, SD 57758