Obituary of Jack Bunkelman

Jack Owen Bunkelman February 19, 1931 - July 18, 2009 Jack Owen Bunkelman age 78, of Monroe passed away peacefully at 9:52am, Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Mercy Memorial Hospital after a seven month battle with esophageal cancer. Jack was born on February 19, 1931 in Monroe. He was the son of the late Henry and the late Tracey (Albrecht) Bunkelman. Jack attended Monroe High School and was a member of the class of 1948. An excellent tennis player Jack helped to lead Monroe High School to the State Tennis Title in the late 1940's. He served two years in the United States Army during the Korean War. Jack was stationed overseas at Saulsburg. He married Renea Berns on May 16, 1959 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Jack served the citizens of the City of Monroe for more than thirty-three years as the Assistant Assessor and Assessor. He retired December 31, 1991. Jack was a man of faith. He placed God first in all that he did, and he was a long-time member of Trinity. He also placed his family on a pedestal. He enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with them and he had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren. Sports were also high on Jack's list. He was instrumental in starting the Custer Baseball League, and had also spent many years coaching Babe Ruth Baseball in the City of Monroe. He was an avid golfer. Jack and Renea enjoyed traveling together. Many of their trips involved cross country jaunts to witness their grandchildren's activities. He is survived by his wife Renea of Monroe, a son: James (Vicki) Bunkelman of Monroe; a daughter: Teri (Bud) McCarty of Cary, North Carolina; a brother: William (Marion) Bunkelman of Monroe; and five beloved grandchildren: Brandon, Ashley, and Cara Bunkelman, and Erin and Drew McCarty. Friends may gather from 3:00-8:00pm, Monday, July 20, 2009 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. Friends may also gather on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 323 Scott Street where Jack will lie in state from 10:00am until a Celebration of His Life at 11:00am. The Rev. Jeffrey Walsh, Associate Pastor of the church will officiate. Following his service cremation will take place. For those desiring to make donations; the American Cancer Society or Trinity Lutheran Church are suggested. Online words of inspiration and comfort can be made by visiting www.merklefuneralservice.com and then selecting the Life Stories page.