John Otto Kunkel

John Otto Kunkel died November 17, 2023, in Wichita Falls, Texas at the age of 86. Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, with Rev. Jesse Edwards officiating, at the First Baptist Church in Throckmorton, Texas. Interment will follow at the Throckmorton Cemetery.  Visitation hours will be held from 6:00-7:00 PM on Tuesday November 21, 2023, at the Smith Family Funeral Home, Throckmorton.

John was born on August 14, 1937, to George and Caroline Kunkel in Throckmorton, Tx. He was the middle child of three sons. John attended Throckmorton ISD and continued his education at Texas Tech University. John enlisted in the Navy in May 1955 and married Linda McCaslin Kunkel in 1960. John and Linda soon had three children, all girls.

John was a man of honor and service. He gave 26 years to the Navy and retired as Master Chief Electronics Technician. John traveled the world during his time in the armed forces and recalled Okinawa, Japan as one of his favorite places. John completed extensive training in communications, submarines, advanced nuclear power, and electronics. Prior to his retirement, John received a Commendations Medal for meritorious service.

After retiring from the Navy, John and Linda returned to Throckmorton. John owned and operated a construction company and lumberyard that built homes for residents. His daughter, Johnna, enjoyed working side by side with him for 15 years and served as foreman for 13 of those years. John, alongside his daughter, Michelle and husband Mike, opened a restaurant that was enjoyed by all. John was proud to serve his community as President of the school board and Mayor for many years. During this time, he helped to orchestrate 20 miles of pipeline after Throckmorton was declared a national emergency due to drought. John also mentored many young adults who chose career paths in the Armed Forces, specifically the Navy.

Linda became sick with cancer in March 2005. John was a devoted husband and caregiver until her passing in October 2005. In August of 2007, John remarried to a lifelong friend, Susie Walraven-Kunkel. John and Susie brought unexpected and undeniable joy to one another. They have spent 16 years traveling, fishing with grandchildren, and enjoying the outdoors. Susie was his strength and best friend during their marriage.

John was an avid reader, fisherman, gardener, cook, and carpenter. His grandkids knew, "Papa could fix it". He will be remembered for his integrity, work ethic, good nature, honesty, and great sense of humor. He was loved by many, especially his family. John was proceeded in death by his parents George and Caroline Kunkel; first wife, Linda Kunkel; and his daughter Caroline Clark Hancock. He is survived by his many grandchildren and great grandchildren along with his wife Susie Kunkel; daughter Michelle Clark and husband Mike; daughter Johnna Kunkel; brother George Clark Kunkel; brother Ben and wife Trish; and step daughters Debbie Lukert and Tonya Elliston.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.smithfamilyfh.com.