Friday, June 4, 2010

Mount Rainier loses a friend.

Ake Sundstrom passed away peacefully on May 31, 2010. Ake was born in Jameten, Sweden, on March 4, 1917.

Ake is survived by his cherished Bronka, wife of 64 years, his son Allen Jack Sundstrom (Robin), and grandchildren Chloe and Grover.


Ake was proud to be a carpenter for Tucci and Sons for 26 years, and a member of Local 252. Ake had an exquisite sense for harmony and environmental balance, reflected in the fine craftsmanship of the beautiful home he built on the banks of the Nisqually River. Ake was equally at home deep in the wild backcountry or high on the pristine alpine snowfields of Mt. Rainier. The quintessential cross-country skier, admired for his grace and balance, Ake was also a ski jumper as a young man in Europe. An inseparable pair, Ake and Bronka forged many lasting friendships on the slopes of Mount Rainier, friendships that have woven an expanding pattern that includes scores of loyal friends.


Ake and Bronka’s life story is a remarkable tale of survival and enduring humanity, of courage and renewal. Ake was a rare man of exceptional quality, as was immediately recognized by anyone who had the honor of meeting him… a man of stature, a vanishing breed.


A celebration of life will be held in the coming weeks, date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, any memorial contributions should be made to the charity of one's choice. Please leave condolences online at www.GaffneyCares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.