KUNKEL, Ferris Talmadge

Today's News-Herald, Lake Havasu City, Arizona - Published Wednesday, January 19, 2011 > Ferris T. Kunkel < > Oct. 24, 1919 — Jan. 7, 2011 < Ferris Talmadge Kunkel was born Oct. 24, 1919, in North Platte, Neb., to Eli and Edith Kunkel. He was the fourth of five children. Shortly after he was born, his family relocated to Ramona, Calif. He moved to Los Angeles after he graduated high school and began working at Schrillo Aero Tool Co., in 1939. In 1942, he was inducted into the Army, where he served in World War II as a sharpshooter until 1946. After serving in the Army, he returned to work at Schrillo Aero Tool Co. In 1955, he married Retta Mae Taylor. Throughout the years, they opened their home to many foster children, as well as anyone in need. They lived in Southern California until they retired to Lake Havasu City in 1990. Ferris was an avid bowler, as well as a pitcher in his company’s softball league but his greatest hobby was his family. He was very devoted to those closest to him and he was loved by all who had the honor of knowing him. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, two sons, four daughters, 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sisters, four sons and one grandson. He will be greatly missed by those whose lives he touched. A celebration of life will be Saturday at Lake Havasu Seventh Day Adventist Church at 3 p.m. Thoughts and condolences may be submitted to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were placed under the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home and Crematory.