Sandra Rae Walter

March 30, 1951 — February 22, 2026 

A special reception for family and friends is planned at 10:15 a.m. on March 8, 2026, at United Methodist Church in Detroit Lakes, Minn., for Sandra Gustafson Walter, who passed away Feb. 22, 2026. Patrons are welcome to join regular services at 9:15 if so desired. Sandra will be cremated and buried this summer at Evergreen Cemetery Red Lake Falls, Minn.

Sandra Rae (Gustafson) Walter was born in Langdon, N.D., on March 30, 1951, to Helen and Raymond Gustafson. Sandra attended Hay Township country school near her home. She graduated from Langdon High School in 1969. Sandra attended Devils Lake Jr. College then transferred to Minot State College. She graduated with a teaching degree in special education, reading, elementary and secondary education.

Sandra dedicated her life to motherhood and teaching special needs students and elementary/middle school students. She taught at the Walhalla School District, Thief River Falls Public Schools and Big Lake Public Schools in Minnesota. While teaching in Thief River, she met Marvin Walter, a middle school vice principal. They were married in 1978. In 1980, Sandra and Marvin moved to Alaska. Sandra was a middle school sixth grade teacher in Juneau Public Schools for 20 plus years. Sandra gave birth to Wade Walter on March 11, 1980. Chad Walter was born on March 29, 1983. She and her family loved Alaska’s beauty and outdoor opportunities. She spent time fishing, boating and attending athletic events with family and friends. After retiring in 2007, Sandra and Marvin moved to Detroit Lakes, Minn., where they enjoyed lake living for 20 years.

Sandra enjoyed reading, teaching and outdoor adventures. She fished, golfed and attended sporting events. She volunteered her time at United Methodist Church in Detroit Lakes. Sandra loved her family and friends. She strived to maintain connections with all.

Sandra died from ALS disease on Feb. 22 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Detroit Lakes. Sandra was much loved by her family: Marvin; sons Wade (Heidi) Walter of Memphis, Tenn., and Chad Walter of Ripley, Tenn.; three grandchildren: Codie Rae (18), Amelia (16) and Cooper (16); and brothers: Greg (Janis) Gustafson of Sun Lakes, Ariz., Jeff (Terri) Gustafson of Langdon, N.D., and Ray Gustafson of Langdon, N.D.

Arrangements were made with David- Donehower Funeral & Cremation Service in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota.