Russell E. Bunyea

Russell E. Bunyea, a lifelong resident of Mahopac, NY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the age of 95. He was born in Mahopac on March 2, 1930, the son of Samuel E. and Grace (Barrett) Bunyea.
Russell was a proud graduate of Mahopac High School and went on to serve honorably in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict, where he was stationed in Germany. Upon returning home, he built a successful business as the owner of R. E. Bunyea Painting Contractors, serving the Mahopac community for many years.
A man of quiet hobbies, Russell was an avid bowler who continued to enjoy the sport well into his 90s. He was also a lifelong reader and enjoyed playing chess, especially with his grandchildren. He gave driving lessons to all of his grandchildren and enjoyed attending their sporting events and concerts/recitals.
On November 10, 1956, he married the love of his life, Barbara Monzillo, at St. John the Evangelist Church in Mahopac. Barbara predeceased him in 2019.
Russell is survived by his sons, Doug (Lisa) of Florida, Steve (Veronica) of Mahopac, and Mark (Kristine) of Carmel, NY; his daughters, Sally Wylock of Mahopac and Laurie Huggard (Luke) of Pawling, NY; his brother, Clifford (Margaret) of Florida; 19 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. In addition to his beloved wife Barbara, he was predeceased by his sisters, Phyllis Lippman and Marjorie Conklin.
Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, May 29, from 3–7 PM at Joseph J. Smith Funeral Home. A Prayer Service will take place at the funeral home on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 10:30 AM, with interment to follow at Ballard-Barrett Cemetery in Mahopac Falls, NY.