Michael Kunkel

Michael Key West - Kunkel Kunkel Mike passed away peacefully at his home in Key West, Florida, following a brief battle with cancer. True to his legendary spirit, he remained optimistic until his last breath.

Beloved son of Eugene Kunkel and the late Suzanne Kunkel (née Elliott). Loving brother of Jean (Jack) Powers, Bob (the late Eva), Tom, Dan (Gia), the late Joe, Matt (Neal Lenhoff), and Suzi Kunkel. Cherished uncle of Jack Powers, Kevin (Hailey), Rachel, Jimmy, Renee, Marty (Nissa), Elliott (Lauren), Toby and Drew Kunkel, Molly (Lou) Guida, Jake, and Peyton Kunkel. Proud great-uncle of Hannah and Miller Kunkel. He was a devoted cousin and a dear friend to many.

An artist and creative soul, Mike was drawn to painting, photography, design, and music. He loved the sun, dancing, and above all, people. Perhaps his greatest passion was helping others. Despite losing his hearing over 25 years ago, he considered himself fortunate and poured his superhuman energy into supporting those in need. As a beloved member of the Key West community, he was deeply involved with the SMART Ride organization, as a member of the "Mile Markers" Tour de Keys, raising thousands of dollars for individuals living with HIV/AIDS for AH Monroe and MARC House. He also was a proud fundraiser for the Sister Season Fund, dedicated to helping Key West neighbors facing temporary hardship due to illness, accident, or hurricane.

From the day he started kindergarten at Ascension School, continuing through his years at Fenwick and OPRF, teachers and students alike marveled at his unflagging cheerful disposition, in particular his ability to uplift those around him. Since his passing, countless people have noted how his irrepressible compassion and zest for life made him someone they wanted to emulate, and a beacon for how one should live life to its fullest.

Mike was pure sunshine. He had a gift for making every person he met feel seen and valued. His positivity, kindness, and boundless joy illuminated the lives of everyone he met, making the world a brighter and more beautiful place.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to https://tourdekeys.donordrive.com/participants/1273 are appreciated.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Ascension Church in Oak Park, IL on Friday December 5th at 10:30am, with visitation beginning at 9:30am at church before mass.

A celebration of life will also be held in Key West, FL in the spring of 2026

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Michael "Mike" Joseph Kunkel, please visit our flower store. All arrangements are entrusted to Key West Mortuary. Friends and family are encouraged to sign the guestbook at www.keywestmortuaryc.com