Cookie Sundstrom

A remarkable woman inside and out, Idalynn “Cookie” Sundstrom truly understood the secret to a life lived to the very fullest. She was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times, and she faced every challenge that came her way with unwavering determination and courage. Nothing brought Cookie greater joy than being surrounded with her friends and family. Her heart was made of gold, and she was a shining example of kindness, compassion, and service to others. Dearly loved, Cookie will be forever missed by those who knew her best.

The 1950s in the United States are remembered as a time of great and influential change. The country was flourishing following the end of the Korean Conflict overseas, and back home, popular TV shows such as “I Love Lucy” burst onto the scene, changing the world of entertainment forever. During these exciting years, there was much to celebrate in the household of Raymond and Geraldine (Fales) Bellgraph of Grand Rapids, Michigan, as they announced the arrival of their third child and first daughter. Born on August 2, 1956, Idalynn joined her two older brothers, Glenn and Gerry, in the Bellgraph family.

Throughout her childhood, Cookie was a typical young girl of her generation in many ways. She was raised on the family farm near Dorr, Michigan. From a young age, it became clear that Cookie was a tomboy at heart and loved trailing after her brother, Gerry, everywhere he went. She enjoyed the great outdoors, tent camping, spending time in the Allegan County Forest and the cabin at Diamond Lake, and swimming in Little Rabbit River near her home. Cookie grew up attending local schools. Her first car was a maroon ‘67 Plymouth Belvedere, and when the transmission went out, Gerry found her a Dodge Demon of her very own. Cookie graduated from Hopkins High School, then began working in the school’s office for a time, eager to see what the future held.

Over the years, Cookie built a fulfilling career for herself beginning in trucking. She was a long haul trucker for a couple of years, driving produce to and from California. Cookie later worked many years for Leitelt Iron Works, handling bookkeeping, orders, and much more. After the company was bought out by Padnos, she continued working there and traveling to various locations in the area.

Of all the things Cookie loved in life, she treasured her family above all else. She met Scott Koomen through truck driving and quickly grew to appreciate his listening skills. Cookie and Scott were married and soon welcomed their son, Jesse, into their lives. Cookie thrived in her role as a mother, and she was so deeply devoted to raising and caring for her son. She was Jesse’s biggest supporter and advocate. Though Cookie’s marriage to Scott ended in divorce, she was always grateful for the son they shared.

Before long, Cookie met the man who would become the love of her life. His name was Steve Sundstrom, and the two first met at Ricker’s Bar in Comstock Park, where Steve was working as a bouncer. The spark between them blossomed into a relationship, and the rest was history. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Cookie and Steve were married in 1997 at the Congregational Church in Wayland, Michigan. With the marriage, Cookie’s family grew to include two stepchildren, Amanda and Andrew, who she loved like her own. The newlyweds enjoyed a memorable honeymoon in Key West, Florida, then settled down in Wayland to step into their future together.

The Sundstrom family enjoyed many camping trips to Mystery Creek Campground, a tradition that lasted 30 years. They were also able to create memories camping at Sleeping Bear Dunes, Mackinaw Island, and Pictured Rocks, and they loved renting a cottage on Wolf Lake to spend more time in nature. In 2008, Cookie and Steve moved to the northwest side of Grand Rapids, making their longtime home on Escott Avenue. Cookie treasured every moment she was blessed to share with Steve until he passed away in 2013.

Later in life, Cookie was thrilled to become a grandmother to Amari, Bobby, Matthew, Natalie, and Ezra. She doted on her beloved grandkids and attended every event and activity she could. Cookie was also fortunate to find deep companionship and connection with Dave Buckley. The two shared many adventures and special moments together. Recently, both Cookie and Dave joined the Eagles auxiliary chapter in Stanwood.

Never one to sit still for long, Cookie had many hobbies that kept her busy. She was an excellent cook and devoted countless hours to her stained-glass and refurbishing projects. Cookie was known to be an amazing bowler and a bit of a pool shark. She was very knowledgeable about various topics and enjoyed engaging in discussions or debates from time to time. Cookie loved her classic rock music, and for many years, no one could outdance her. Her faith was kept private and personal, but the strength of it was evident to all.

When reflecting on the life of Idalynn Sundstrom, it is easy to see both her unyielding strength and her unconditional love for her family. She made the most of every moment, never letting a single blessing slip by unnoticed. A dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, Cookie always made sure to hold her friends and family close. Her willingness to go above and beyond to serve those around her made an impact in her family and her community. Although she is already so greatly missed, Cookie leaves behind a priceless legacy that her loved ones will be proud to carry on in her footsteps.

Idalynn “Cookie” Sundstrom, age 69, passed away October 9, 2025. Cookie was born August 2, 1956 in Grand Rapids, to the late Raymond and Geraldine (Fales) Bellgraph. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Steve Sundstrom; and her brother, Glenn Bellgraph. Cookie loved classic rock, enjoying dinner out and listening to cover bands. She was a proud patriotic American, loved camping and had recently joined the Eagles auxiliary in Stanwood. Cookie will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by her children, Jesse (Theresa) Koomen, Amanda Rice and Andrew (Margaret) Sundstrom;grandchildren, Amari, Bobby, Matthew, Natalie, and Ezra. She is also survived by her brother, Gerry (Babette) Bellgraph; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Rich and Chris Sundstrom; special friend, Dave Buckley; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. A service to celebrate her life will be held Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 11 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW. Friends may visit with her family beginning at 10 AM. According to her wishes cremation has taken place. Memorials may be made to Interim Hospice.