Mark A. Kunkler

Mark Kunkler (77) passed away in the Mother Angeline McCrory Manor Rehab Center on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, of natural causes according to Kathy, his wife of nearly 40 years. Mark was born on January 3, 1947 in Columbus, OH, the only child of Francis and Margaret Kunkler.

Mark enjoyed driving his two BMWs, especially a Mini-Cooper. His hobbies included an aquarium stocked with colorful fish and a cage of finches. His last years included an 8-year old, tri-color Australian shepherd dog and a 13-year-old Calico cat, who were his constant companions.

Mark graduated from Holy Rosary High School in 1965 and from The Ohio State University School of Pharmacy in 1972. Mark worked at Cochran Pharmacy on Livingston Avenue at James Road for ten years. After being robbed at gunpoint in the store on three separate occasions, he switched to hospital work, including 8 years at Columbus Mercy Hospital and completed his career working 20 years at Lancaster Fairfield Hospital working the unpopular 2-11 PM, Thurs-Sunday shift, missing holiday celebrations and family events.

Mark was a lifelong resident of Central Ohio, growing up in Columbus and then as a married homeowner in Gahanna for 31 years. Mark was a member of St. Matthews Catholic Church.

Mark is survived by his wife, Kathy, and two adopted sons, Francis, his wife Krizia, and Robert.

Long-time friends included Joe VanBalen, DDS, Stephen Cull (D), Paul Duffey, and cousins Ann, Claudia, David and Rita Kunkler, and a group of caring neighbors.

Mark was fond of German classical music, American folk songs and later in life Rock and Roll from the 1970s. He often hosted Rosary High School friends Mark Lally (D), John Ross III (D), Mike Jolley (D), Tony and his brother Chris Elia for pizza and music after a spirited game of miniature golf.

A funeral Mass was held at the gravesite at St Joseph's Cemetery on South High Street where Mark was interred with his parents.

Rest in Peace