Surnames: Balz, Bunkelman, Christians, Gorski, Hoffmann, Houts, Kalepp, Sunnen

----Source: The Tribune Phonograph (Abbotsford, Clark Co., WI), Volume 48, No. 14, April 2, 2008, Page 16

Bunkelman, Gerald A. "Russ" (18 Feb 1938 - 29 Mar 2008)

Gerald A. "Russ" Bunkelman, 70, of Athens, passed away Saturday, March 29, 2008 in the Critical Care Unit at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Russ was born to Chester and Tillie (Sunnen) Bunkleman on February 18, 1938 in Marathon City. He attended school at Milan Elementary then later at Abbotsford High School. After high school Russ helped his father on the family farm.

Russ later married Janice (Kalepp) on August 1, 1959 in the town of Rib Falls. They returned to the homestead which they later purchased from Russ’ father and there they started their life together on the same farm that Russ was born and raised. Together they raised their three children: Russell, Cindy, and Jacalyn. Russ loved many things in life including tractor pulling, traveling, making maple syrup and simply enjoying life in general. He also enjoyed spending time with his family including his nine grandchildren.

Russ is survived by his loving wife Janice of 48 years, and his children; Russell (Sherri) Bunkelman, Athens, Cindy (Cory) Hoffmann, Stratford and Jacalyn (Bob) Houts, Edgar. His nine grandchildren; Taylor and Hayden Houts, Tony and Tanner Balz, Cole Hoffman, Brandon, Garett and Macey Bunkelman and Clifford Gorski-Bunkelman. He is further survived by 3 brothers; Lloyd (the late Carmeletta) Bunkelman, Athens, Bernard (the late Nancy), Edgar and Duane (Darlene) Bunkelman, Marshfield.

Russ is also survived by many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and one sister.

"When I come to the end of the road and the sun has set for me I want no rites in a gloom filled room. Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little - but not too long and not with your heard bowed low. Remember the love that we once shared. Miss me but let me go. For this is a journey that we all must take and each must go alone. It’s all part of the Master’s plan. A step on the road to home. When you are lonely and sick of heart, go to the friends we know and bury your sorrows in doing good deeds. Miss me - but let me go!

Funeral Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 2, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Milan. Pastor Matthew Christians will preside. Burial will follow in Milan Public Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be John, James, Gary, Brian, Jeff and Timothy Bunkelman. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday at the Maurina-Schilling Funeral in Abbotsford and on Wednesday at the church in Milan from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Paid Obituary 14-81371