Phyllis R, Kunkel

Phyllis R. Kunkel, age 81, a resident of Macomb Township and formerly of Shelby Township, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, in Troy, Michigan—just one week shy of her 82nd birthday. Born on May 28, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, Phyllis was the beloved daughter of the late William and Mildred (nee' Craig) Burns. She was the devoted wife of the late Henry G. Kunkel, with whom she shared a beautiful and loving marriage of 61 years before his passing on August 21, 2024. Phyllis was a loving and nurturing mother to Kari (Kevin Harang) Wendorf and Chris (Laurie) Kunkel. She found her greatest joy in her role as grandmother, cherishing every moment spent with her beloved grandchildren—Katie, Michael, Ava, and Adyson—who were truly the light of her life. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Kaye Burns, and was preceded in death by her siblings: Bill (Carol) Burns, Jean (Lee) Southern, Pat Burns, Larry (Phyllis) Burns, and Jimmy (Lucy) Burns, and also survived by many nieces and nephews. Phyllis had a vibrant spirit and a heart full of warmth. She loved spending time in Northern Michigan and also spent most of her summers happily boating with her captain, Henry, family and friends. She had a passion for travel, and her most treasured adventures were those spent at Disney, where countless memories were made. A woman of simple pleasures, Phyllis loved outings to Big Boy's for a hot fudge ice cream cake, indulging in sweet treats at Erma's Custard Shop, and savoring coconut shrimp at Red Lobster. Her homemade kielbasa and sauerkraut were family favorites, and her kitchen was always a place of comfort and joy. Phyllis was a devoted fan of Hallmark movies, had a special fondness for lilac flowers, and delighted in collecting Precious Moments figurines. She was an avid Rummikub Cube player, sharing many lighthearted battles with her grandson Michael—who proudly held the winning record. Phyllis will be remembered for her kindness, her love of family, and the deep joy she found in the little things that made life beautiful. She touched the hearts of everyone who knew her, and her legacy of love and laughter will continue to live on through her family and friends. Family and friends will gather to celebrate Phyllis life with a visitation to be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 from 2-8pm with prayers at 6pm from the Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Home 8459 Hall Road (3 Blks E. of Van Dyke) Utica. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at St. Kieran Catholic Church 53600 Mound Road (Btwn 24-25 Mile Road) Shelby Township, she will lie instate at 9:30 am until the time of the mass at 10 am. Phyllis will be laid to rest next to her beloved Henry at Resurrection Cemetery, immediately following mass.

Phyllis R, Kunkel

May 28, 1943 - May 21, 2025