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John Bunic, 75 a musical master departed
this world to direct the biggest of all orchestras. Memories of Swingin, Bopin and Rockin will linger in the minds and ears
of all those who were entertained by the John Bunic Big Band Kenoshas longest-running band. His 21 piece swing/big band combo
kept our feet tapping, hips grooving and arms moving for over 40 years. On Wednesday, June 27, 2007, the last note of John A. Bunic was played
at Brookside
Care Center. Life began for
John on June 18, 1932, when he was born to the late Joseph G. and Genowefa (Kulakowska) Bunic in Kenosha. He was a graduate of Bradford
High School. John earned a Bachelors Degree from the Dominican
College,
and his Masters of Music Degree from the University of Wisconsin
at Milwaukee. He taught music at both St.
Joseph High School and Central
High School. While serving our country with the U.S. Air Force Johns
impact as an entertainer blossomed. He played the saxophone with the Air Force Big Band, and then in a Jazz Band while at
Bolling Air Force Base in Washington D.C.
Upon his discharge from the Air Force, the John Bunic Big Band was born, and from that day until just recently entertainment
was his gig. John was married to the art of music on every level from learning to teaching to performing. As a teacher and
as a musician he was passionate about sharing his gifts and providing quality entertainment in Kenosha
and Racine. To us, John was a celebrity! But upon meeting him you soon realized
he just thoroughly enjoyed being an entertainer and was always engaging as a person. Musicians, friends and audiences alike
will always remember John for his humble and enthusiastic demeanor. The consummate teacher and natural leader and musician
will remain as much a part of our community as does the music and memory of those he honored such as Count Basie, Glenn Miller,
Tommy Dorsey and Stan Kenton. He was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church; a Lifetime Member of the P.L.A.V.,
J. Smelcer Post 34; and a member of the Musicians Union Local #59. John is survived by his good friend Larry Czarnecki. Funeral
Services will be held on Saturday, June 30, 2007, at 9:15 a.m. from the Piasecki-Althaus Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated
at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 1919-54th St. Interment will follow in St. Casimir Cemetery. A visitation
for John will be held on Friday, June 29th at the funeral home from 4 until 8 p.m.. P.L.A.V. Post 34 will conduct services
on Friday at 7:30 p.m.
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