 Joseph Michael Vunk, 38 years old of Edmeston, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, January 21, 2016 in New Berlin, NY.
He was born in Cooperstown on December 3, 1977 son of John (Jack) and Donna (Wilcox) Vunk.
His childhood was spent in the Edmeston area where he attended and graduated from Edmeston Central School. He began working at Preferred Mutual Insurance Company during his senior year in school and continued there for 20 years as the Support Services Technician.
Joe’s foremost passions in life were his uncompromised love for his family, all forms of athletics and being an avid outdoorsman.
Joe always felt that family comes first. He was a hands-on father, a loving husband, a helpful son to his parents, a supportive brother to his siblings, and an uncle who would spend countless hours playing with his nieces and nephews. Joe was a friend to everyone he met and he viewed his friends as an extension of his family.
When not spending time with his family and friends, he served as a director of Unadilla Valley Little League Softball in addition to coaching baseball, indoor and outdoor soccer and basketball. Joe touched many lives as a coach helping kids in the community learn to play sports. In honor of his love for sports everyone is invited to wear either, Syracuse Orangeman, Unadilla Valley or Edmeston gear for his services.
He is survived by his fiancé, JenaLee Lawson, and children Maddy Vunk and Natalye Menard.
Besides his parents, he leaves two brothers; Jeremy and April Vunk and their children; Jack and Julia, Kristopher Vunk and Jess Allen and their children; Lillie, Makaylie and Hunter and one sister; Kari and Zeno Lantos and their children; Alex and Max. He is also survived by his fiance’s mother, Carol Lawson, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was pre-deceased by his fiance’s father, David Lawson.
Calling hours for Joe will take place at the Dakin Funeral Home LP in New Berlin on Tuesday Jan. 26, 2016 from 12:00-3:00 PM followed by the funeral service at 4:00 PM. Pastor Robert Decker of the First Baptist Church in South New Berlin will officiate.
Memorial donations may be made to a trust fund for his children and can be sent to Mary Ann Vunk, 9 Vunk Ave., Edmeston, NY 13335.
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Bob & Linda Sullaway
Jeremy & April,
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. It is always tragic when someone so young passes.
Mary Ann Toriello
Norwich NY
Saddened to hear of your family's loss. I worked with Joe at Preferred.
He will be remembered by many as someone who always had a smile and was ready to assist anyone who needed his expertise.
Gail Kinter
Herndon VA
I used to work with Joe at Preferred Mutual & remembered him as a really nice guy!
He was very pleasant at all times & a good worker. I am so sorry for the family's lost of such a very nice gentleman.
Bob and Ruthie Yerkes
Lakeland FL
Jack and Donna I've been trying to figure out how you can put into words what I am thinking right now but it is really tough.
All Ruthie and I can say is we are truly sorry you 2 are going through this heart breaking ordeal.
Prayers are with you and your family.
Dick and Lucky Stanton
New Berlin, NY
Our sincerest sympathy goes out to you and your family at this very sad time. We feel your pain deeply and hope our common experience can somehow give you comfort in knowing that time will turn sadness into pride and honor for having parented such a fine young man. Joe's legacy will be his love of family and his contributions that have made the world a better place. What a wonderful testimony to his life.
Gina and Naty
Rockford, Illinois
Sending our heartfelt sympathy to Jack, Donna and family. We are so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.--
The Zaycos
Deb Poe
Gaithersburg, Md
I am deeply sorry for the loss of Joe. May the Lord gradually heal the pain in your hearts and strengthen your faith as each day passes.
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. God Bless.
Joan E Allen
New Berlin NY
Jack & Donna and family my thoughts and prayers goes out to you at this time.
Joe was a wonderful young man and you have to be proud of him.
Garry, Karan Wheeler & Family
Pittsfield, NY
So very sorry for the loss of Joe, our prayers and toughts go with all of you.
Dave Hall
Gunter, TX
Jack and Donna..... There aren't any words that can express my sadness for your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts.
Dave Starkweather
Hamilton, NY
So sorry for your loss. May time and fond memories heal your pain.
Ed Potrzeba, Jr.
Marcy, NY
So sorry for your loss of Joe - he was such a great guy. I have been working with Joe for many years as a vendor,
he was so great to work with, hard working and good to be around. I am at loss for words.
Debbie Lohnas
West Winfield NY
Words are lost at a time like this. Please find solace in your family and friends. Hold them close and tell them how much you love them.
My prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time.
Jill Eisenhut
Melbourne Florida
So terribly sorry for your loss. Donna it was so nice reconnecting with you in Florida after so many years and the one thing that stood out the most to me was your love for your children and grandchildren. Though I didn't know Joe I can tell that you and Jack raised an exceptional man. Again I am so very sorry.
Valerie Wheeldon
Edmeston, New York
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Joe was a great guy and will be deeply missed.
Paul Jackson
Norwich NY
Dear family, I am so sorry for your loss. I too was lucky enough to have worked with Joe. As many have mentioned, he was always willing to listen, he would make you smile, laugh, share a story, or even say a simple hello as he passed you in the hallway. Joe was a true gentleman, a gentle giant:) Joe had a certain smile, one that I will always remember. He was a special individual and touched so many lives. I am blessed to have been a part of his journey and a friend of his. Rest in peace my dear friend.
Donna Stanton
Edmeston, New York
Jack and Donna, our deepest sympathy go out to you and your families.
Linda Howard
Tampa, FL
Words cannot express how sad I was to hear of Joe's passing.
He was always such a pleasure to work with at PMIC. My thoughts and prayers are with the whole family.
Moneta Lamomt
New Berlin, NY
Joe's presence is deeply missed at Preferred. I could always count on him for a friendly smile and genuine hello.
He was a great coach and had lots of patience for all of the children. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Jim Smith
Oneonta, NY
Jack, Donna, and everyone else,
I am very sorry to hear of Joe's passing.I hope to make it to calling hours to pay my respects.
I'm hoping my parents are helping him get settled in heaven. God bless all of you.
Deb Stillman
Westport, CT
I'm so sorry to hear of Mr. Dunham's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during such a difficult time.
God bless. With sympathy, Deb
SYLVIA LINDBERG
EDMESTON, N.Y
MY FAMILIES HEART GOES OUT TO YOUR FAMILY! GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!!!
Andy Meyers
Burlington Flat's NY
I am so sorry to here about the passing of Joe. He sure was a nice person.
I will always remember when I would watch him play ECS baseball and being a nice friend to me in school.
Chris Decker
New Berlin, NY
So sorry for your loss, Many prayers to the family. He was a great coach and will be missed greatly.
Teresa and Helen
Powers
Hartwick NY
So, so very sorry for your loss. We enjoyed seeing Joe at the local shows. We will miss him.
Amy Bell
Norwich NY
We are so sorry for your loss. Joe was an amazing coach to Sarina. He always took extra time with her and made her feel special. Sarina just started school and Unadilla Valley. She signed up for soccer. I had never played and was a " soccer Mom. " Poor Joe, I had no idea what to do. He stepped up and got involved. Matty is a wonderful friend to Sarina and we will always be here for you and your family. Love the Bell's.
Daniel Fairchild
So. New Berlin NY
Sorry for your loss. Joe was a very good friend and would do anything to help someone in need. He enjoyed working with the young children in their sports. He will be greatly missed. May the good Lord bless you in your time of need and up lift your spirits.
Pat Clark
Edmeston N.Y.
Dear Vunk Family, So very sorry for the loss of your beloved son, father fiancé brother cousin Joe. There are no words.
I know I feel your pain. I am thinking of you as the whole community is. You are in our prayers.
Darlene Smith
Norwich NY
I am so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to the entire family. May all the great memories help you through this difficult time.
Christine Johnson
South New Berlin NY
Joe, will surely be missed, my prayers go out to the family. I have worked with Joe for the last 20 years, and I already miss seeing him here. I also worked with Donna when she worked at Preferred, and Jena, when she was here. Love and Prayers to Donna & Jena, and family. Joe also coached my grandson in indoor soccer, my grandson liked him so much, he asked if he would be coaching him in little league. Joe always said hello, and had a smile for everyone. God Bless.
Radziewicz
Florida
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family..
v
Mike Lee,Gary lee & families
West Winfield NY
Too many softball and golfing memories too talk about just one thing with joe. Lots of good times with him,tim ross,lance,and brad.
All will remind me of him through the years.
One of the ones you are glad to have met thru lifes travels.
Jamie Thompson
New Berlin NY
So sorry for you loss Joe was a great guy and will be well missed.
Fran Lizor
Gloversville NY.
So sorry to hear of your loss. Joe was a wonderful man.
Helped us out so much with opening the fence so we could get into our property during hunting season. Joe will be missed.
Nancy A Sawyer
Norwich NY
Joe was not only a co worker of mine at PMIC he was like a little brother. He would always say "Good morning" "How was your weekend" and always liked to share sport stories especially stories of his two girls and their achievements in soccer, basketball , etc... Whenever you felt that the world gave you too much to handle Joe would listen to your troubles. Loved to argue sports w/him .. best team in baseball Yanks / Mets .. he would always argue about how much my Yanks were getting paid in salaries etc .. Syracuse basketball was also a good topic to talk .. Your in my thoughts Joe Joe .. Always !!!!!!!!!!!!
Mark & Lisa Beadle
South New Berlin, NY
So very sorry for you loss. Joe will definitely be missed by all of us here at Preferred. He was such a great guy. May you rest in peace Joe.
Ronnie & Phyllis Beadle
Rock Hill, South Carolina
Jack & Donna and entire family:
Nothing we can say can relieve the hurt or sadness, but memories help. Mine are not only when he was just a young boy and all the laughs young boys bring about, but just two years ago when we were visiting in New Berlin and upon my early morning walks I run into him three different days by the back door of Preferred on his way in to work and we would visit for a few minutes and I came away each day thinking what a nice and respectful young man he had become.
Our condolences are wished upon everyone and please know we wish we could be there to give each of you a great big meaningful hug.
My god Bless you all
Russ Carpenter
Edmeston, NY
My thoughts and prayers are with you all
Bob and Helen Alcott
Edmeston, NY
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ed Straut
Bainbridge, NY
Thoughts and prayers for the entire family for the unexpected loss.
Regina Bozza
The Villages, Florida
"For there is hope even for a tree. If it is cut down, it will sprout again." --Job 14:7. I am looking forward along with the family and friends
to the happy day when those we miss awaken from their sleep.
Amy,Harold,Hunter and Keona
New Berlin, NY
Our hearts and prayers go out to you all. We will always remember what a great dad and coach Joe was.
Take comfort in knowing what a good guy he was. Rest in peace Joe.
Karl & Linda Emhof
Belton, SC
Works cannot describe the loss of Joe. Sounds like he touched so many lives. Prayers go out to everyone who knew and loved him.
He will truly be missed.
Gina Perry
Albany, NY
My deepest sympathy to all the Vunks, JenaLee, Mady and Natalye. Job was one of kind and a gentle soul!
Connie Barnes
Norwich, NY
So sorry for your loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Helen West
Maryland, NY
May Joseph's family and friends be comforted by God's promise to "Swallow up death forever, and wipe away every tear from all faces."
(Isaiah 25:8) Remembering too the promise of the Resurrection hope for both the Unrighteous and Righteous. (Acts 24:15)
Jaclyn Lund
Edmeston NY
I forgot to add my name on my earlier post Donna and Jack so the untitled was likely by me. Sending love and prayers to your entire family.
Heather Whiteman
Commack, NY
My prayers and condolences goes out to all of Joe's family and friends. My memories with him will forever be in my heart. He had a smile that could light up any room and a personality that made him many friends. You will be missed more then anything. Love you Joe.
May you rest in peace sweet angel.
Lorie and Dick Saunders
Edmeston, New York
There are no words. Donna and Jack, your children meant so very much to me. As their teacher in grade school in Edmeston so many years ago
I still remember how very special your children were. Dick and I are so saddened by your loss.
Joanne Curtis
New Berlin
Nancy & Brian Prenticr
New Berlin NY
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. Joe's smiley face will be dearly missed by everyone ay Preferred.
Dave Regina and John Rowlands
Catskill NY
Jack and Donna and family,
We send our prayers to all of you at this time of loss. Joe was a special person with that wonderful smile.
Otto Graham
West Burlington
Herb & Peg Sears
Edmeston, NY
Jack and Donna, our hearts go out to you and your family during this very sad time. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Nancy Weissflog
Oneonta, NY
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Annette Covais-Marro
Ilion, NY
My deepest sympathy to you Jack and family. I will keep you in my prayers.
Jordan E. Jaquay
Cherry Valley, NY
Jack and Donna- my heartfelt condolences for your loss.
John / Judy Martin
Burlington Flats, NY
We send our love an prayers too all!
May God give each of you what you need to carry on ! So sorry for your loss!
Mike & Deb Newell
Morris, NY
My heart breaks for all of you. Seeing his smiling face daily we will certainly miss
He was a great assett to Preferred. RIP dear friend unil we meet again.
Wendy & Steve Anderson
Edmeston NY
My sincere condolences to all of you. This has reminded of when I used to get off the bus and watch the kids after school. Funny that 2 of our children would someday go to school and play sports together. I just saw Joe & his family last week @ a game. I guess it is true that we just never know - we should take each day as a gift. Find comfort in knowing that the community is here for all of you. Jena & the girls will be looked out for. Thoughts & Prayers!
Marie Goupil
Morris NY
My heart just breaks for all. I have worked with Joe for the last 20 years at Preferred always looked forward to his morning hello and smile
and a little joking. He will be definitely missed. My thoughts and prayers goes out to all but especially to his kids and family.
Dave & Toni Zaleski
Edmeston New York
Our deepest sympathy to JenaLee, Maddy and Natalye as well as the entire Vunk family.
He was a great person and we are honored to have had him touch our lives. Our prayers are with you all.
Dewitt & Diane
Jack, Donna an family, We wish we could be there for you at this very sad time. We feel for all of you an even thro we did not know Joe we know he was one special son,father,an family man. Sending our love an hugs to all of you. You are very special family.
Jack and Sharyn Gibbons
We send our prayers to you and your family.
Patti Johnson
Dade City, FL
My prayers and thoughts go out to the family. I enjoyed working with Joe. Although words seem to say so little, I hope they help in some small way to ease the sense of loss that you're experiencing today. Hold onto your memories, as they will always be in your heart today and forever.
Thinking of you all.
Vickie Burton
Norwich NY
Joe was always a pleasure to work with. Always ready to help. My condolences to his family! RIP Joe!
Barbara Parker
Oneonta, NY
Thoughts & prayers to all of Joe's family and friends. He was an amazing co-worker.
Martha and Marty Winsor
Edmeston, NY
We send our love and support to Joe's family. Our hearts are with you through this difficult time of loss.
Darlene Cross
New Berlin, N.Y.
Joe was a great friend to me up till the he passed. Had lots of good talks about his family and racing.
Goodbye Joe, I sure will miss you. My prayers go out to all his family and dear friends.
Diane Baker
Mt Upton New York
Joe was an amazing young man and a friend to everyone.I enjoyed working with him and we had a lot of good times in the mailroom at PMIC.
My heart goes out to his family.RiP Joe you will be missed.
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