Merle D. Bunker

Merle D. Bunker, 82, of Mesa, AZ, passed away on January 1, 2006. Born in Tooele, Utah, she married B. Allen Bunker in April of 1946 and graduated from the University of Utah in 1948. They moved to Las Vegas, NV where she worked as an area correspondent for the Salt Lake City Deseret News. She also hosted the Romper Room television show as "Miss Nancy" for two years. She then worked as writer, producer and star of the "Cinderella Show" for 10 years. Merle was also named Nevada's Outstanding Citizen. In July of 2003, the Clark County Nevada Heritage Museum honored Merle with the opening of an exhibit of some of her memorabilia. In 1964 the Bunkers moved to Mesa, AZ where Merle was active serving as coordinator for the US National Bicentennial, and Mesa Centennial celebrations. She was named Mesa Woman of the Year in 1987. She had her own public relations company, TV dating service and assisted her husband in their mortuary business for over 30 years. Merle was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving in many positions with the youth and women of the church. She is survived by her husband B. Allen, sons Brent and Randy (Arlene), daughters Robyne (Chris) Fullagar and Jennifer (Bill) Hall, 19 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Thursday, January 5, 2006 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Bunker's Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa. Services will be Friday, January 6, 2006 at 10:00 AM at the Mountain View Stake Center, 1550 N. Val Vista Dr. in Mesa, AZ, with visitation also one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions in Merle's name may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 3800 N. Central Avenue, Suite 700, Phoenix, AZ 85012