Obituary

Rex Alvin Bunch, 90, of Lee’s Summit, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2026.

Rex was born on June 11, 1936, to Warren and Mary Bunch in Arkansas City, Kansas. He was raised on a farm along the Marais des Cygnes River and was one of seven children. He was the older brother of Emerson and Norman, who lovingly referred to Rex as “The Chief.” Whenever the Bunch brothers were together, they enjoyed lively debates about religious and political issues.

After graduating from high school, Rex joined the United States Air Force and served part of his military tour in Germany. After returning to his hometown of Paola, Kansas, he met Barbara, the love of his life. They were married for 68 years and were married at their hometown church, First Baptist Church of Osawatomie.

After their marriage, Rex and Barbara lived in Harrisonville, where they attended First Baptist Church of Harrisonville. Rex taught Sunday School to a young men’s class. They later moved to Lee’s Summit, where they made their home for the past 58 years.

Rex worked at the Western Electric plant for more than 30 years, from the time it opened until it closed, as a tool and die maker. He was also a faithful servant at First Baptist Church of Lee’s Summit, where he taught a young men’s class for sixth-grade boys.

Rex enjoyed spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, and taking walks. Most importantly, he loved the Lord. His Jerusalem was his home. There was never a visitor who came to his home who left without hearing about the Lord and listening to Scripture.

Rex and Barbara lived out the example of a Christian home. They truly were never empty nesters. From the time they were married until the day Rex went to be with the Lord, their door was always open to family and friends who needed a place to stay. Their home was a place of love, faith, fellowship, and welcome.

Rex was preceded in death by his parents, Warren and Mary Bunch; his brothers, Willis and Michael; his sisters, Anita and Roberta; his daughter, Serena; his grandchildren, Sarah and Mathew; and his great-grandchildren, Celeste and Sorin.

He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Barbara, of the home; his children, Geri, Cindy, Kathy, Gwyn, and Ben; 16 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

A family graveside service with military honors will be held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery at 20109 Bus, MO-13, Higginsville, Missouri.

A Celebration of Life service for family and friends will be held on September 12, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Lee’s Summit. The visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. with a service at 12:00 p.m., followed by lunch for the family.

Rex’s life was a testimony to his love for the Lord, his devotion to his family, and his willingness to open his home and heart to others. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.