David H. Bunch

David Hamilton Bunch, age 92, died in his home in Oak Harbor, Washington on September 4, 2024.
David was born on July 16, 1932, to Flossie May and David Franklin Bunch at his home in Wallula, Washington. Dave was the 9th of what would eventually be 12 kids. In June 1952 Dave joined the United States Navy where he served until June 1956. During his time in the Navy he sailed from California to Japan 4 times. His travels took him to the Philippines and along the Korean coast during the Korean War. During this time in the Navy Dave became pen pals with his future wife Dica Pearl Crewse. Dave and Dica were married on September 3, 1955, in Milton-Freewater, Oregon.
Dave and his family lived in Auburn for 42 years where he worked as an air traffic controller until he retired in 1986. After retiring, he went back to work with a civil contractor as an air traffic instructor. When Dave fully retired, he and Dica enjoyed many winters at their home in Arizona. In 2004, Dave and Dica moved to Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island to a beautiful 5-acre oasis in the woods. If you were flying somewhere, Dave would always ask for your flight number so he could sit in his office and watch your progress on Flight Radar 24. Once an air traffic controller always an air traffic controller.
Dave was well known for his 'Write a Letter' philosophy. If there was ever a product or service, he was unhappy with, he'd write a letter to the company. If he didn't receive an answer, he'd write another letter and so on. Dave was loved by so many. He had a heart of gold and was always willing to help those he loved.
Dave is survived by his wife, Dica, their sons, David (Dorothy) and Dennis (Dena), their daughter, Denise and two grandchildren, David (Maria) and Dejanelle. He is also survived by two brothers, as well as several nieces, and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will take place at Wallin-Stucky Funeral Home in Oak Harbor on Friday, September 20 at 12:00 pm. A reception will follow at Oak Harbor VFW Hall.