Samuel “Sam” J. Brunk Jr., 86, of rural Pawnee, died at 10:46 a.m. on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at St. John’s Hospital. He was born February 3, 1938, to Samuel J. Brunk Sr. and Ruth Marie Brunk (Byers).
His parents and brother, John preceded him in death. Sam married Mary Wanda Yavaroski on February 26, 1966.
Sam was part of Glenwood High School's first graduating class. He then attended Springfield Jr. College before earning a bachelor's degree in Mathematics from Eastern Illinois University. Sam also did postgraduate work at the University of Washington.
Sam spent 37 years as a Supervisor of Research and Statistics for the State of Illinois, retiring on December 31, 1999.
Farming was in Sam's blood - he grew up farming with his father, and he continued to do so by growing corn, soybeans, and wheat. He also raised Duroc hogs with his son and tended to a large garden. Sam only retired from farming at the age of 82.
Sam had a passion for coaching youth baseball and basketball and was a devoted fan of Notre Dame football.
Sam enjoyed traveling the world with his wife on trips organized by farm groups. Later in his life, he also enjoyed going to Naples, Florida, every year during the winter months.
Sam was a respected member of the Brunk family. He had previously served as the President of the David Brunk Cemetery and maintained a detailed historical record of the David Brunk descendants. He was considered a valuable source of Brunk family history by all family members.
Sam was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Chatham.
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Mary Wanda Brunk; three sisters who shared a lifetime of memories with him, Marilyn Lamboi, Ruth (Jim) Costello, Jane Truitt; and a brother, Charles, who stood by his side through thick and thin. He is also survived by his son, Samuel J. Brunk III (Karen) and three adoring grandchildren, Morgan, Caitlin, and Megan, who brought him immense joy.
Visitation and Funeral Mass: Family will receive friends from 10:00 until 10:45 a.m. on Monday, April 15, 2024, at St. Joseph the Worker, 700 E. Spruce St., Chatham, IL. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Joseph M. Molloy, celebrant. Immediately following the Mass will be a luncheon at the Church.
Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center following the ceremonies.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Chatham, 8855 State Route 4, Chatham, IL.
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