Michael Dennis Kunz

Preston - Michael Dennis Kunz, 63, passed away suddenly on October 13, 2008, from a tragic accident that took all who knew him by surprise. He and his wife, Kathleen Carter, were soul mates in every sense of the word, mom always said, "She and Dad must have played in the same sandbox in the Pre-existence." He was a beloved friend and mentor to his children and to those whom he worked with in the church and in political meetings.He was born May 12, 1945 in Richland, Washington, the son of Cecil Wendell and Margaret Veloy Bair Kunz. He was lucky to grow up with 1 sister and 4 brothers, in a home where hard work and dedication were treasured values. He spent his summers on his Grandfather Bair's farm in Idaho Falls, ID and in his Uncle Glen's welding shop.He graduated from Preston High School in 1963 where he played football as tight-end and was active in high school musicals. Mom, asked Dad out to a girls choice dance their Junior year and went together ever since. He served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Dublin, Ireland from 1964-1966. His marriage to Mom was solemnized on August 19, 1966 in the Salt Lake City temple. He graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Business Administration and shortly thereafter he was drafted into the U.S. Army in the Vietnam Era and served from 1969-1971.Throughout his life he developed many talents and abilities that he was able to share and teach to his children and grandchildren. He spent years learning woodworking, gathering tools and wood for various projects, Dad was a master craftsman, he had the ability to fix and make the impossible possible, He took great enjoyment in building his own home and helping his kids remodel their homes. He enjoyed the outdoors and always looked forward to taking his boys and grandchildren hunting. He enjoyed working cattle and horseback riding. Dad's greatest interest in life was his wife Kathleen; they often were seen walking together, shopping, going to dinner, attending the temple, anything to be together.Mike enjoyed getting up early and going for a walk and riding his bike to and from work. He spent many selfless hours serving his community through service as Franklin County Clerk for 13 years, and the Citizens of Preston City as a city councilman for 5 years. Mike always enjoyed working for the people of this area; he always stood for what is right even if he was in the minority. Dad stood firm for what he knew was right.Always mindful of providing for his family and his community he started and ran a successful small business, Kunz Computer Software for over 25 years. Mike served as secretary for the Twin Lakes Canal Company for over 30 years and enjoyed the association he found there. He was active member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and held many callings: Full time missionary, home teacher, Bishop, Councilor in the Stake Presidency, and Councilor and Clerk in many bishoprics. Stake High Council, Regional Welfare Representative, Gospel Doctrine teacher, Elders Quorum President and currently served as High Priest Group Leader. Dad had a firm testimony of the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ and knew that families can be together forever. He was always so enjoyable to hear giving a sacrament talk or gospel doctrine lesson. He is survived by his sweetheart Kathleen. Children: Candace Jenks (Brian) Minot, North Dakota, Travis M. Kunz (Kamille) Preston, ID; David C. Kunz (Marcia) Preston, ID; Daren B. Kunz (Crystal) Pocatello, ID. Grandchildren: Braden, Cody, Brook, Kari, and Brittney Jenks; Kaden, Kassidy, Hallie, Chloe and Emma Kate Kunz; Emily, Matthew, Rachel, and Tyler Kunz; Johnathan, Michael, and Lydia Kunz. He is preceded in death by his Father Cecil Kunz, Mother Veloy Kunz, mother-in-law Irene Carter and other close friends.Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. in the Preston 8th Ward Chapel, 213 South 2nd East, in Preston with Bishop Randy Wakley conducting. Friends may call Friday from 6-8 p.m. at the church and Saturday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. also at the church. Interment will be in the Riverdale Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.webbmortuary.com.