David Frank Kunca

1941 - 2024

David Frank Kunca

July 23, 1941 - July 13, 2024

David Frank Kunca of Roanoke, VA died peacefully at his apartment on July 13, 10 days short of his 83rd birthday. Born in Orange, NJ, he was the son of Mary and Frank Kunca who preceded him in death. He is survived by a sister, Susan Hutchison of State College, PA; two nephews, Greg of Milan, MI and Gary, wife Laurie; and daughter, Nicole of Hopewell Junction, NY.

The first 23 years of his life were lived in Maplewood, NJ in the house his grandfather built in 1917. Upon graduating from high school, he enrolled at the University of Delaware, where he received his BA. He was on the track and field team and set records for the javelin throw. He received his MA in psychology from Hofstra University, and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Vanderbilt. He received a grant from The Pediatric Institute of Chicago to do research there.

While in Chicago he enjoyed several years as a "super" in productions at The Lyric Opera of Chicago. When his grant ran out, he met and partnered with Don Cass. Together they owned and remodeled several buildings in uptown Chicago.

In 1986, while visiting the Cass family in Roanoke, he bought a house in Old South West. The partnership continued and they bought a building across from city hall. For many years David had a 5000 sq ft antique shop on the first floor.

David will be remembered for his love of opera, reading, antiques, his lake side cabin, helping those in need, and his ever-present wit. He will be greatly missed by family and friends.