William Kunkelman Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Kuhn Funeral Home - West Reading on Nov. 29, 2024.
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William Crowe Kunkelman III, 80, passed away at Reading Hospital on November 10, 2024. Born in Harrisburg, he was the son of William C. Kunkelman and Bonnabelle (Arner) Kunkelman.
Bill graduated from Lyons Township High School in La Grange, Illinois, in 1962. He was not only a state record-holding swimmer but also made a name for himself as the MC at his prom, where he entertained his classmates with a 20-minute comedy routine.
After graduating from high school, he pursued his college education at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. During his time at Trinity, he was an ambulance attendant. He then furthered his education at the Wharton School of Business of the University of Pennsylvania, obtaining a master's degree. During his college years, Bill worked as a maître d' at The Crystal in Reading, taught memory and speed reading with Creative Learning Systems in Allentown, and worked in warehousing at International Foundry Supply. After graduating from Wharton, Bill spent a few years in Chicago pioneering a cash discount and entertainment card.
Bill served as Vice President for Morgan Trailer, then President for Trail R Van, a Morgan subsidiary. Bill dedicated the rest of his professional life to the field of advertising as an executive at Adventure Communications in Exton, and an executive of SK Advertising in Pottstown. He additionally held a position on the board of Goodwill Industries of Berks, acted as the National President of Reciprocity, and provided marketing lectures to outstanding high school students during Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week for two decades.
Bill was a vibrant and adventurous spirit who cherished every moment with his family. He loved sharing family vacations in beautiful Vermont. He owned some fast cars and enjoyed exploring some exotic destinations. With a passion for science, he kept a close eye on the latest developments in space. Additionally, he dedicated his time during grad school to volunteering for medical research at UPenn. Bill had a deep affection for animals, forming friendships with numerous dogs, cats, and birds. He dedicated years to renovating a house while working full time. Bill passionately cultivated beautiful flower gardens everywhere he lived. He leaves behind many future years of stunning blooms.
William is survived by his brother, Brian Kunkelman, of Mohnton. He will also be missed by his niece, Kathryn Harenza, his nephew, James Harrison Kunkelman III, and his step-niece, Mallory O'Riordan.
In addition to his parents, William was predeceased by his brothers, Jonathan and James Kunkelman.
Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in William's name to the Animal Rescue League of Berks County by mail at 8 Kennel Road Birdsboro, PA 19508 or online at https://berksarl.org/berksdonates/.
Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home is honored to serve the Kunkelman family. Condolences may be written online at KuhnFuneralHomes.com.