John David Kunzi

John David “Papa Bear” Kunzi

John was born on December 27, 1933 in Columbus to parents Emil and Coribel Kunzi. On October 28, 2023, at the age of 89, he passed away at Hoover Haus in Grove City where he resided.

John served in the US Air Force and was a proud Korean War veteran. He retired in 1993 from the City of Columbus.

John is preceded in death by his late wife, Mary Ann (Schillinger) Kunzi, his parents, brothers Emil J. Kunzi Jr. and Donald Kunzi, niece Darlene Schmitt and nephew Valentine “Buddy” Gleich.

John is survived by daughters Theresa Nichols (Craig Sherrod) and Laura Detty (Matthew Nance), Paul Schillinger and Phil Schillinger, nephew John “Mickey” Kunzi and nieces Judy Greer and Jenny (Jerry) Devore, many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Special Friends and neighbors Mary Tackett, Mary Butterbaugh and Jeff Edwards.

John’s family would like to thank his Hoover Haus family and Promedica Hospice for caring for him and loving him like a family member and for keeping him comfortable while preparing him for his journey to eternal life.

Special thanks to Quinten, Lori (gave John “Papa Bear” nickname), Deanna, Vicki, Lisa, Nicki and those not mentioned. Thank you Linda for being there when he passed. All of you had a special place in his heart…he loved everyone!

John did not want a service. His cremains will be joined with his wife and their beloved dog, Duke, at Walnut Hill Cemetery on Rathmell Road in Columbus.

A Celebration of Life is being planned and family and friends will be invited to attend.