William Jack "Pop" Kunkle

William Jack (Pop) Kunkle, 79, of Statesville, died Sunday May 8, 2011 at the Gordon Hospice House. Born in Iredell County on December 31, 1931, he was a son of the late William Blake and Edith Gill Kunkle. He attended Statesville City Schools and graduated from Statesville High School in 1950. Mr. Kunkle worked in the auto industry for many years as a salesman for Carolina Motor Company and Armstrong Volkswagon. He had his own used car business and most recently sold motor scooters. Mr. Kunkle also served in the Army at Fort Jackson from 1951 to 1953.

Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Shirley Love Kunkle, two daughters, Jacqueline Lynn Kunkle and Elizabeth Kunkle Bush. "Pop" is also survived by three grandchildren, Kathryn Anne, Francis Blake and William Henry Bush all of Statesville and a puppy, Striker, who was given to him by his grandchildren.

Beside his grandchildren, his love was cars and dogs, especially Boston Terriors.

In additon to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Michael Scott Bush.

He was a lifetime member of First ARP Church. He served there as an Elder, Deacon and Youth Leader.

Services celebrating "Pop's" life will be conducted at First ARP Church on Wednesday May 11, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. with a private burial to precede the service. Rev. Bob E. DeWitt and Rev. Bob Sherer will conduct the service and visitation will follow in the fellowship hall. At other times the family will be assembled at the residence.

Pallbearers will be: Ricky Hathcock, Darrell Hathcock, Roger Love, Jerry Love, James Kunkle and Dan Combs.

The family wishes to express special thanks to the staff of Hospice & Palliative Care Of Iredell County and the Gordon Hospice House for the love and care they showed to Pop.

For those who prefer, memorials may be given to Hospice & Palliative Care Of Iredell County, 2347 Simonton Rd. Statesville, N.C. 28625. Condolences may be sent online to the family at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com.

Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.