Robert Kunst

1922 - 2018

Robert (Bob) Kunst Passed away at Nazareth House in San Rafael on June 2nd at the age of 88. He was born alongside his twin brother, Bud Kunst on September 22, 1922 in Sacramento, California. Bob and Bud moved to Marin at the age of four where they attended Saint Anselms, Tam High, and College of Marin, where they both played football. Bob and Sue Larkins met in high school and married when Bob returned from serving in the Army. They had five children and foster children, and hosted several exchange students. Bob always enjoyed swimming, gardening, and hosting parties. Following his father's footsteps, he continued a tradition of the Kunst family in the painting business that began in the early 1900's. In 1958, Bob established what is known today as Bob Kunst Painting, Inc. Over the years, Bob was a pioneer in the painting industry, and a recognized leader throughout several associations. Bob was a driving force in rebuilding the St. Vincent de Paul Dining Room and was a member of the San Rafael Kiwanis Club where he devoted countless hours to community service. Bob also worked with Habitat for Humanity, was a Eucharistic minister in the St. Isabella Parish in Terra Linda, served on the Marin Inter-Faith Council, and board of Homeless Chaplaincy. Bob's success in professional circles and his unselfish service to others is why he was selected as the Frank Fogarty Marin Citizen of the Year. Hardworking, smart, funny, generous, and humble, Bob was a man of deep Catholic faith and integrity. He was universally liked and admired. Bob was preceded in death by his twin brother Bud Kunst, and by his daughter (Lori Kunst), who passed away at an early age. He is survived by his wonderful wife of 65 years, Sue, and by their four children, Cathy Busick, Tom Kunst, Ken Kunst, and Karen Covell. Bob was much loved by his eleven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, to whom he was "Papa." Bob's life will be celebrated at a Mass at St. Isabella's Parish in Terra Linda on Saturday, June 16th at 11am. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Vincent de Paul, Nazareth House, or Hospice Continuum.