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RICHARD ALBERT "RICK" LABUNSKI

1947 - 2014

RICHARD ALBERT "RICK" LABUNSKI obituary, 1947-2014, Brownsville, TX

BORN

1947

DIED

2014

FUNERAL HOME

Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home

710 Ed Carey Drive

Harlingen, Texas

RICHARD LABUNSKI Obituary

RICHARD "RICK" ALBERT LABUNSKI Harlingen, TX - Richard "Rick" Albert Labunski, 67, passed away June 18, 2014. Rick was born June 16, 1947 in Rockford, IL to Albert and Lillian Labunski. He graduated from Montana State University, where he received a Bachelor of Architecture Degree. Rick was the owner of Labunski Associates Architects for over 35 years. He started his architecture practice in Harlingen and on South Padre Island in the early 1970's and quickly gained notoriety for his designs of dozens of island condominium projects. Throughout his career he was awarded numerous public school, retail, industrial, medical, and hospitality projects throughout the Valley. His work included thousands of buildings. Rick was admired and respected by other professionals, builders, clients as an extremely gifted and talented architect. He was a member of the American Institute of Architects, NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards) and was a licensed architect in 10 states. He loved the Lord, loved his family, and enjoyed life on his "farm," raising goats and the many other animals that he took great pleasure in caring for. He was an Eagle Scout and his many hobbies throughout his life were focused on the outdoors and adventure: fishing, hunting, competitive go-cart racing, and many other sports. He had a seemingly endless supply of energy and enthusiasm for life, family, work, and hobbies. His outgoing spirit will be deeply missed. He was strong in his faith and certain of God's promises. Rick is survived by his wife, Dee Labunski of Harlingen and his children, Andrea Labunski Nelson of Katy, TX, Carrie Labunski Shimek of New Mexico, Cameron Labunski of Austin, TX, Robby Lovell of Harlingen, and Matt Lovell of San Antonio, TX. He adored his nine grandchildren: Taylor, Natalie, and Luke Nelson all of Katy, TX; Logan and Nikola Shimek both of New Mexico; Lily and Jack Labunski, both of Austin, TX,; Peyton and Ashton Lovell both of Harlingen. He is also survived by his father, Albert Labunski of Rockford, IL, and his brothers, Tim, Pat and Gerry Labunski. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lillian Labunski. A memorial service will be held Monday, June 23, 2014, at 1:00 pm, at Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Tip of Tex K-9 Rescue, 1514 S. 77 Sunshine Strip #24, Harlingen, TX 78550. You are invited to sign the guestbook or leave a memory at www.buckashcraft.com. Arrangements are with Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home. Sign the guest book at www.themonitor.com/obituaries

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Monitor on Jun. 22, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for RICHARD LABUNSKI

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Monica Clancy

March 25, 2021

Although I never knew, I know how much your family misses you, And all the friends you had.

Jeffrey Hagerich

March 23, 2021

My condolences to the family. I just learned of Rick's passing. I was in a meeting yesterday and was asked who was the best Architect that i had worked with over the years and Rick's name came to mind. i decided this morning to reach out and see how he was doing and sent an email to his old address. i then looked him up on line to see what he had been up to. Rick was a great human being who is missed immensely and the world is lessened by his loss.

September 5, 2015

After not seeing him for 45 years, I was deeply saddened to learn of Rick's passing. He and i were sweethearts for a few years at Montana State University in 1967-70. I thought he was a magical personality, extremely bright, yet also humble, fun, handsome, and kind. I have many treasured memories of him and feel like a piece of myself has been lost. I didn't know him in his later years, but the spark of his unique soul surely won't be lost in eternity. Rest in peace my dear friend. Condolences to his wife and family.
Lura O'Neal...Madison, WI

Jeri Garrett

July 16, 2014

I am saddened to hear of Rick's passing. I worked for him in 1981 when I first came to South Padre Island. He was revolutionizing the Island in those days with the many many buildings he designed. Over the years, I have had the privilege to work with him on a several projects and it was never boring! His standards professionally were extremely high and I was fortunate to be able to learn from him.

My condolences to his family for their huge loss.

e hanmore

July 8, 2014

I am at a loss for words in hearing of Rick's passing, condolences and prayers to his family. Rick was a great guy who never took himself to seriously he was just fun to be with, gonna miss him. Worked with Rick on several occasions & went trout fishing never a dull moment.

Ron Stewart

June 29, 2014

We lost a great man in Rick. His spirit and passion for his work and for life in general were unbelieveable. The impact he made on many I am sure will carry on with all of us he left behind. My deepest sympathies for his family and I pray for peace and comfort for all during this difficult time.
Ron Stewart

Jojn Joe Villegas

June 29, 2014

Rick had a creative sense of humor that will be missed. Upon returning from lunch one day he and my late brother Jimmy forced me into state of outrage. Rick had arraigned to have someone apply correction tape on the side of my brand new 300ZX so as to appear it had been keyed. As we approached they milked it for all it was worth. Even the staff in the office were at the window laughing.I am gladden the el Valle is slow paced enough to make time for a good laugh. I will miss him.RIP God Bless you on your journey.

June 27, 2014

My heartfelt sympathy on the passing of Rick . He was a a wonderful
human being . We shared many hours in the renovation of The Plaza and Breakers Condominiums , where as always , his input and proffessionalism were the key elements to any and all of our decisions .
He will be greatly missed , to his wife and childres as well as to his grandchildren , may you find confort in the memory of a great man
and wonderful person .
Pepe Schwarz

Scott Phillips

June 25, 2014

So sorry to hear about Rick. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Let me know if you need help, or anything at all.

Andres Hernandez

June 25, 2014

I worked with Mr. Labunski in a project in South Padre Island and I just wish to say he was a fine man. Knowledgeable, friendly, professional, and humble. I learned so much from him through the 3 years the project lasted. I will always remember him fondly, and I wish his family the best.

June 24, 2014

Our sincere condolences to the family.I will miss Rick's friendship.
Jon & Diane McCoy

MONICA CLANCY

June 24, 2014

I DIDNT KNOW RICK BUT I KNEW OF HIM. I HAVE HEARD WHAT A WONDERFUL PERSON HE WAS. DEE IM SO SORRY AND MY PRAYERS WITH YOU AND ALL YOUR WONDERFUL FAMILY. I LOVE YOU SHARING PICS WITH US OF THE GRANDKIDS, KEEP THEM COMING. MONICA CLANCY

stan starrett

June 24, 2014

To Rick's family, Rick had the ability to listen to his client and begin drawing the objective that the client desired. He was a very special talent, and very easy to work with...His passing is a great loss.

Lisa Wang

June 23, 2014

Will be thinking of your family during this time of hardship.

June 23, 2014

"Some people come into our lives and leave footprints on our hearts and we are never ever the same....."
Rick is greatly missed. We were blessed to have known such a wonderful and kind man; and even more to have him as a friend. His words of advice, encouragement, and praise were always appreciated and will never be forgotten.
Our deepest sympathies to the Labunski Family during this sorrowful time.
Jr. Cantu and Nannette Garcia
EHFAR Ranch Feed and Supply

Frank & Martha Slavik

June 23, 2014

Our prayers and thoughts are with the family our condolences sorry for your lost. We shared some good times together, you will be missed.

June 23, 2014

Our deepest condolences to the Labunski Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.

Puga-Mesa Family

Mary Gonzales

June 23, 2014

My prayers are with you all. May you and your families find comfort in the Lord.

Arkesh Tripathi

June 23, 2014

Shocked to learn the very sad news. Had discussion last week for project Rick was working on for me. We will miss him a lot.

It takes time to heal the loss but God always gives strength to face it.

Beatriz (Swiff-Train Co.) Pinalez

June 23, 2014

Our prayers and thoughts are with the family.
psalm 23:1

Joseph Kim

June 23, 2014

He is gifted architect. He always has given his best idea for our company. I pray him get a comfort and peace. Lord, embrace him. Joseph Kim

Diana Delaunay

June 23, 2014

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Tammy DeGannes

June 23, 2014

So very sorry to hear of your loss, may you find comfort knowing he is in God's embrace.

Christopher Baker

June 23, 2014

Dee and Cameron,
So very sad to hear the news of Rick's passing. He was a great mentor and I learned so much from him over the many years I worked for the firm. He had an impact on my life and I regretfully won't be able to make it to the service today. You are both in my thoughts and prayers.

-Christopher Baker

June 23, 2014

My family knew Rick when we raced gokarts. He and Cameron were fun to race with. May the Lords peace be with you all.Susan McKay

June 23, 2014

Labunski Family- Our condolences--
Years ago, we at Green and Associates had the privilege of working many projects with Rick and it was a special relationship. Our hearts to you---
Warm thoughts, Jim and Sandy Green

michael Phillips

June 23, 2014

Dee pràying for you and your family.
Love Mike and Vicky

Clay Stokes

June 23, 2014

Cameron, May Christ's loving presence comfort you and your family during this difficult time.

June 23, 2014

Our deepest condolences and prayers for the family of Mr. Labunski.

Staff at Valley Family Limited

Chris and Sonia Phillips

June 23, 2014

Dee,
I was so saddened to here this news. Your are in my thoughts and prayers Dee.
Chris Phillips

Jan Nesmith

June 23, 2014

Prayers to your family, god will help you though this tough time.

June 22, 2014

Ms. Labunski,
"My deepest condolences and prayers go out to you and your family, thus, I will always remember the times he and I spend together working his goats, thus, he will greatly be missed..."
- John Richard Chapa and my parents Mr. and Mrs. Richard Chapa and my little sister Deandra

Janis Silveri

June 22, 2014

May you feel the loving arms of God around you.

Martínez Family

June 22, 2014

Mrs. Labunsky sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Lois Silvanovich

June 22, 2014

My deepest condolences to Dee and her family. May God wrap you in HIS Loving Arms and carry you through this most difficult of times.

June 22, 2014

My deepest condolences on the passing Rick Labunski. May God send His Holy Spirit to comfort and guide you during this difficult time.
Anna L.Leal

Effren& Belinda Benavides

June 22, 2014

We are very sorry to hear of Rick"s passing, We met him at c.f.c. church, and Effren did a job at his home. Our condolences to his family. May the Lord give each and everyone of you strength,We will continue to pray for your family. from; Effren and Belinda Benavides

June 22, 2014

Dear Labunski Family:
May God give you strength during this time and may his strength lift you up when you are down for he gives comfort to all… Matt 5:4.

Brenda Sansom

June 22, 2014

My condolences on your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

June 22, 2014

My sincere sympathy for your loss.
Nancy Wirth (friend of Connie and Tim)

John G Montalbano

June 22, 2014

I feel the loss of my friend Rick, his sudden passing is felt by all those who loved and respected him. I will miss our long conservations and his sense of humor, he holds a special place in heaven.

Ron and Anne Corzine

June 22, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Kenneth Benton

June 22, 2014

A great man, and even better human being

June 22, 2014

I am so sorry to hear of Rick's passing. I worked with Rick on several projects and also enjoyed the visits to his office. He was so intelligent. I learn alot from him. He was so giving of his time and knowledge.
Anthony Covacevich, ACC

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Memorial Events
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Jun

23

Memorial service

1:00 p.m.

Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home

710 Ed Carey Drive, Harlingen, TX 78550

Funeral services provided by:

Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home

710 Ed Carey Drive, Harlingen, TX 78550

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