Art grew up on Springfield’s North End and graduated from Griffin High School in 1964. He was a proud member of the United Auto Workers union and a lifelong Democrat. He was also a member of the Riviera Club, where he enjoyed bank lining on the Sangamon River for catfish, feeding and watching birds, and playing with his dog, Lily. He was a passionate fan of the Chicago Cubs. Art loved spending time with family and friends, especially during the holiday season, where strains of Christmas music could be heard throughout the house just after Halloween.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Debra Kunz; his son and daughter-in-law, Arthur and Catherine Kunz of Kitty Hawk, NC; son and daughter-in-law, James and Bethany Kunz of Columbia, MO; daughter and son-in-law, Terri and Michael Pogioli of Pekin, IL; and grandchildren, Evan, Carter, Emiley, Katie, and Anthony Pogioli, Finlay, Eli, Deanie, and Teddy Kunz, and Maya and Jake Kunz.
He is also survived by his brothers, Raymond (Carol) Kunz of Valencia, CA, Frank (Glenda) Kunz of Springfield, Jeffery (Janice) Kunz of Chatham, John (Susan) Kunz of Springfield; a sister, Diane (David, deceased) Johnson of Middletown; and his best friend and honorary brother, Rusty (Wanda) Kunz of Springfield, IL.
Art was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Gregory; and his son, Andrew Gardner. A Celebration of Life will be held later in the spring.
The family will host a Celebration of Life from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 31, 2021, at the Riviera Club, 4477 Brickler Rd., Springfield. The Celebration of Life will be held rain or shine.
In lieu of flowers, memorials contributions may be sent to Friends of Sangamon Valley, P.O. Box 13352, Springfield, IL 62791 or the Illinois Audubon Society (Adams Wildlife Sanctuary), P.O. Box 2547, Springfield, IL 62708.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home—Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.
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