Kathryn Gunkel

Kathryn Gunkel, 73, a devoted Christian, mother, grandmother, and friend, died at her home in Blytheville on March 7, 2021. Kathryn and her husband John pastored churches in southern California for over 20 years. She was a faithful member of Connection Church in Blytheville. With a smile as big as her heart, Kathryn had boundless energy which she invested in family. She loved her family unconditionally.

To honor our mom we ask that in lieu of flowers or cards that you all take your $$ and invest in your family. Go on a picnic, buy a board game to enjoy with your family. Just be present while you are here. Also a word of wisdom from mom, "If you have trouble saying 'I Love You' to those dear to you ... push through and say it .. It gets easier every time."

She was preceded in death by her husband, John A. Gunkel Sr.; her son, James A. Gunkel II; her parents, Wilbert and Zedith Garcia; and her sister Wilma Bettencourt.

Kathryn is survived by her best friend and daughter, Kimbra Fulks (Tim) of Blytheville and son John A. Gunkel of Frisco, Texas; two grandsons, Brian C. Fulks (Brittany) of Benton and Blake A. Fulks (Genevieve) Ozark, Mo.; two step grandsons, Chad Metheny (Kristen) of Jonesboro and Dillon Malone (Chrissy) of Blytheville; five step great-granddaughters and former daughter in law Monica Gunkel; two sisters, Dorothy (Joe) Duarte and Tammy (Kenny) Wilson, both of Tulare, Calif.; two brothers ,Wilber "Ray" (Audine) Garcia of Oakland, Calif., and Roger Garcia of Ozark, Ala.; and a host of nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

There will be memorial service honoring Kathryn Sunday, March 14, at 2 p.m. at Connection Church, 4110 Memorial Drive, Blytheville, with Dr. Dale Ruddick officiating. At the conclusion of the service with weather permitting we will have a tree planting in her honor.

Tri-City LLC Crematory Funeral Home is honored and privileged to serve the family of Kathryn Gunkel. Online condolences may be expressed at www.Tri-CityLLC.com .