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BORN
1951
DIED
2025
Gregory Kunka Obituary
May 8, 1951 - May 14, 2025
Blairsville, Georgia - Gregory John Kunka, 74, passed away with Jan, His life partner and her daughter Jenna by his side on May 14, 2025, in Blairsville, GA. Born on May 8, 1951, Greg dedicated his life to education, serving in the Manatee County School System for 37 year. His career was marked by a passion for positively influencing both students and colleagues alike. Greg was also a member of the Bradenton Elk's Lodge, #1511 for 23 years.
In 2012, Greg and Jan, his life partner for 25 years, retired to their beautiful mountain home in Blairsville full-time. Greg was known for his behind-the-scenes contribution of cooking for people who were sick or in need. He also enjoyed his retirement adding on to and beautifying their home. Greg's legacy of kindness, humor, and community service will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.
There will be a Celebration of Life held for Greg on June 7th at 11 a.m. at Unity Church of the Mountains in Blairsville. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Greg to Unity Church of the Mountains P.O. Box 832 Blairsville, GA 30514 or online at unitychurchofthemountains.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gregory Kunka
Sponsored by Bradenton Herald.
Erica Boehle
June 5, 2025
I am deeply saddened by the news of Greg´s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Karen Wilkins
June 5, 2025
Sending much love and strength as you walk the days ahead. May you be surrounded with love and grace. I am so sorry for your loss.
John and Karen Robinson
June 5, 2025
We will always treasure our friendship!!! You demonstrated true unconditional love, patience and kindness. Our hearts are thankful for the many fun times we shared. Love, John and Karen
Tim Kolbe
June 1, 2025
My condolences to Jan and Jenna. I hired Greg as our media specialist back in the 1980´s and he brought an element of creativity to the library and the children. He was a good guy and liked by everyone.
June Conley
May 30, 2025
So sorry to hear about Greg!!
Greg and I worked together at Abel Elementary. We shared laughs constantly and since 3 of us had birthdays so close together we went out to celebrate every year. Greg will be missed!
Judy Bayer
May 29, 2025
My husband and I worked with Greg in the Manatee District Schools. He was often quiet and unassuming but, boy, did he have a wonderful sense of humor. A very giving man, Greg was a dedicated educator whom we all admired.
Meg Durshimer
May 29, 2025
Mr. Kunka was the media specialist at Stewart Elementary when my sons attended and he went out of his way to make sure my oldest son had the books he wanted to read. He´s never forgotten that. And I remember his snow globe collection because I also collect them. May his memory be for a blessing.
Donna Mcglothlin
May 28, 2025
Dear Jan, I was saddened to hear of your loss. Greg was such an interesting talented man. I really enjoyed working with him and getting to know him at Stewart. Remember the time we all went to the hockey game in Tampa.? Then I got to be with you when you had your estate sale. You were so helpful.
Thoughts and prayers for you, Donna Kearney *mcglothlin* RIGHT NOW
Susan Wedel
May 27, 2025
I was very privileged to have known Greg professionally and personally. My husband and I enjoyed our friendship with him and his dear life partner, Jan. Many wonderful memories of boating fun, enjoying his great cooking, partying, sharing the magical experience of watching a total eclipse and more.
We have treasured the amazing gourd art he made for us over the years and it will now be even more special. He will be remembered fondly.
Tanya
May 27, 2025
Mr. Kunka was my 5th grade teacher at Oneco Elementary school '79-'80. He was one of the best teachers. I remember our class collecting bottle caps & getting an article written about it in the Bradenton Herald.
Andrew Romines
May 27, 2025
Mr. Kunka was my 5th grade teacher, along with Mr. Larson, at Oneco Elementary in the 70's. I was always amazed that he could write on the blackboard while facing the class. Rest in Peace Mr. Kunka, you helped students and people more than you knew.
Rebecca Wells
May 26, 2025
Mr Kunka was one of my all time favorite teachers when I attended Oneco Elementary School in the 70´s. He was an amazing teacher and I will never forget him!
Nancy Schroder
May 26, 2025
I am so saddened to hear of Greg´s passing. He had such a great sense of humor and we shared so many good laughs at school. I miss seeing him- the last memory I have is his retirement celebration.
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