‘Soldier of Christ – Well Done!’PROMOTED TO GLORY |
Major Vernon Bunch (R) was recently promoted to Glory from the Swedish Hospital in Seattle, Wash., following complications related to quadruple bypass surgery.
Vernon Bunch was born in 1920 in Oxnard, Calif. He met and married his wife, Dolores, while stationed in Yakima, Wash., with the U.S. Army. Their union was blessed with two sons, Frank and Steven. Upon his return from two years’ service in World War II, he accepted the Lord and began attending the Yakima Corps. He and Dolores entered the School for Officers’ Training as part of the Heralds Session, and were commissioned in June of 1953.
Major Bunch leaves a legacy of Christian witness throughout the territory, having served in Anaconda, Mont., Ft. Collins, Colo.; Helena and Missoula, Mont., as well as Aberdeen and Vancouver, Wash., as corps officer. In 1967 they transferred to the Men’s Social Service and served at Lytton, Phoenix and in Seattle. While there, a highlight of their career was the dedication of the new ARC residence in 1982. His outstanding leadership and service to others has made an impact on hundreds of his fellow men who have participated in the rehabilitation program.
They retired in 1985, having served for 12 years at the Seattle ARC. In retirement, they made their home in Bremerton, Wash.
A graveside service was conducted at the Miler Woodlawn Cemetery in Bremerton, with committal by Major LaVergne Nickerson. The memorial service was at the Renton Corps with Lt. Colonel Evelyn Hunter officiating.
He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Dolores; his two sons, Frank and Steven; a sister, Myrtle Reutgen, nine grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Cards and messages of sympathy may be sent to Major Dolores Bunch (R) at 2130 E. 14th St., Bremerton WA 98310-4443.