Senate Resolution No. 1111
BY: Senator HARCKHAM
MOURNING the death of Russell E. Bunyea,
distinguished citizen and devoted member of his
community
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to honor and pay
tribute to those individuals whose enduring commitment and meaningful
contributions to their families, their communities, and their country
have left a lasting legacy of service and inspiration; and
WHEREAS, Russell E. Bunyea, a lifelong resident of Mahopac, New
York, died on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the age of 95; and
WHEREAS, Born in Mahopac on March 2, 1930, Russell E. Bunyea was the
son of Samuel E. and Grace (Barrett) Bunyea; he graduated from Mahopac
High School and proudly served in the United States Army during the
Korean Conflict, where he was stationed in Germany; and
WHEREAS, Upon returning home, Russell E. Bunyea demonstrated a
strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit, founding and operating R.
E. Bunyea Painting Contractors, a successful business that served the
Mahopac community for many years with pride and integrity; and
WHEREAS, A man of quiet pastimes, Russell E. Bunyea was an avid
bowler well into his 90s, a lifelong reader, and an enthusiastic chess
player, particularly enjoying games with his grandchildren; he also
found joy in teaching his grandchildren how to drive and was a devoted
supporter at their sporting events, concerts, and recitals; and
WHEREAS, On November 10, 1956, Russell E. Bunyea married the love of
his life, the former Barbara Monzillo, at St. John the Evangelist Church
in Mahopac; their loving union, which lasted until her passing in 2019,
was a source of strength and joy for their family; and
WHEREAS, In addition to his beloved wife, Russell E. Bunyea was
predeceased by his sisters, Phyllis and Marjorie; he is survived by his
sons, Doug (Lisa), Steve (Veronica), and Mark (Kristine); his daughters,
Sally and Laurie (Luke); and a brother, Clifford (Margaret); as well as
19 cherished grandchildren and 10 adored great-grandchildren; and
WHEREAS, Russell E. Bunyea's life was defined by quiet service,
dedication to family, and a deep connection to the Mahopac community he
so dearly loved; he will be remembered for his humility, strength of
character, and steadfast love for those around him; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Russell E. Bunyea leaves behind a legacy which will long
endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
who were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing man; he will
be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this
Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Russell E. Bunyea, and to express its deepest
condolences to his family; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Russell E. Bunyea.
