J 1111: Mourning the death of Russell E. Bunyea, distinguished citizen and devoted member of his community

 Senate Resolution No. 1111 BY: Senator HARCKHAM MOURNING the death of Russell E. Bunyea, distinguished citizen and devoted member of his community WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to honor and pay tribute to those individuals whose enduring commitment and meaningful contributions to their families, their communities, and their country have left a lasting legacy of service and inspiration; and WHEREAS, Russell E. Bunyea, a lifelong resident of Mahopac, New York, died on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the age of 95; and WHEREAS, Born in Mahopac on March 2, 1930, Russell E. Bunyea was the son of Samuel E. and Grace (Barrett) Bunyea; he graduated from Mahopac High School and proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict, where he was stationed in Germany; and WHEREAS, Upon returning home, Russell E. Bunyea demonstrated a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit, founding and operating R. E. Bunyea Painting Contractors, a successful business that served the Mahopac community for many years with pride and integrity; and WHEREAS, A man of quiet pastimes, Russell E. Bunyea was an avid bowler well into his 90s, a lifelong reader, and an enthusiastic chess player, particularly enjoying games with his grandchildren; he also found joy in teaching his grandchildren how to drive and was a devoted supporter at their sporting events, concerts, and recitals; and WHEREAS, On November 10, 1956, Russell E. Bunyea married the love of his life, the former Barbara Monzillo, at St. John the Evangelist Church in Mahopac; their loving union, which lasted until her passing in 2019, was a source of strength and joy for their family; and WHEREAS, In addition to his beloved wife, Russell E. Bunyea was predeceased by his sisters, Phyllis and Marjorie; he is survived by his sons, Doug (Lisa), Steve (Veronica), and Mark (Kristine); his daughters, Sally and Laurie (Luke); and a brother, Clifford (Margaret); as well as 19 cherished grandchildren and 10 adored great-grandchildren; and WHEREAS, Russell E. Bunyea's life was defined by quiet service, dedication to family, and a deep connection to the Mahopac community he so dearly loved; he will be remembered for his humility, strength of character, and steadfast love for those around him; and WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of compassion, Russell E. Bunyea leaves behind a legacy which will long endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all who were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing man; he will be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the death of Russell E. Bunyea, and to express its deepest condolences to his family; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Russell E. Bunyea.