Melvin W. Bunyard

Melvin W. Bunyard, 85, a lifelong resident of Fall River, Kansas, died Friday December 22, 2006, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas. He was born July 18, 1921 in Fall River, the son of Harvey Samuel and Viola Belle (Cornett) Bunyard. He was a sergeant in the United States Army, serving during World War II. He worked for 29 years as a foreman for Beech Aircraft in Wichita, retiring in 1980. On July 14, 1941 in Howard, Kansas, he married Mary I. Copenhaver. She preceded him in death September 21, 1999. He was an avid outsdoorsman, especially enjoying fishing and hunting. His survivors include: Four sons: Jim Bunyard of Elk City, KS Robert Bunyard of Fall River, KS Joe Dee Bunyard of Fredonia, KS Jayme Bunyard of Fredonia, KS Two daughters: Sherry Sexton of Severy, KS Bonnie Lassley of Severy, KS Four brothers: Paul Bunyard of Eureka, KS George Bunyard of Whitewater, KS Lee Bunyard of Florida Buck Bunyard of Howard, KS Three sisters: Mary Burt of Fall River, KS Ruby Robert of Severy, KS Betty Riggs of Washington State 33 Grandchildren; 29 Great Grandchildren; 2 Great-Great Grandchildren He was preceded in death by two sons, Billy Joe Bunyard and Toby Bunyard; one sister, Virgie Hemry; and two brothers, Robert Bunyard and D.R. Bunyard. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, December 28, 2006, at Timmons Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Tony Pameticky officiating. Burial will be in the Mt. Zion Cemetery near Fall River. A memorial has been established in his name with the Arthritis Foundation and may be sent to the funeral home.