Jerry Bunge

Jerry Bunge

Lisbon

Jerry Bunge, 80, of Lisbon, IA, went home peacefully to be with the Lord on September 5, 2025, after a brief illness in Colorado Springs, CO.

Born March 23, 1945, in Mechanicsville, IA, Jerry was the son of Emil and Clara Bunge. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Kenneth, Robert, and Donald; sisters Florence Boots, Evelyn Jurgemeyer, and Lois Crissinger; and many beloved Vietnam brothers-in-arms.

He is survived by his brothers Allen (Sharon) Bunge of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Richard (Jean) Bunge of Canton, IL.

On June 4, 1971, Jerry married the love of his life, Karen (Kerslake). Together they shared 54 wonderful years and raised four children: Shelly (Robin) Cooper of Evansdale, IA; Tammy Whitman of Cedar Rapids, IA; Amy (Darren) Coberley of Rapid City, SD; and Angey (Joe) Holt of Robins, IA. Jerry was a proud grandfather to Nicole Edler, Jeremy Edler, Caitlin Edler, Jackie (Taylor) Lange, Jaedyn (Ian) Robles, Jackson Coberley, and Carson Coberley, and a cherished great-grandfather to seven.

Jerry attended Mechanicsville High School and served honorably as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army, 5th Infantry Division B 1/11, during the Vietnam War from 1968–1969. A dedicated patriot, he considered all who

served in the military his brothers, forging lifelong bonds with his fellow veterans. He was a proud member of the Cedar County VFW Post 2537, where he honored the service and sacrifice of his comrades. Following his military service, he worked for Cedar County, IA, as a parts foreman for 32 years before retiring. He later enjoyed working at Home Depot and Penske, but his true passion after retirement was hand-carving walking sticks. Traveling to craft shows with his daughter, Jerry shared not only his artistry but also his gift of conversation—he never met a stranger.

Jerry loved traveling, mushroom hunting, jeeping, and cheering on his Hawkeyes and the Dodgers. He also found joy in coaching and refereeing basketball. Above all, his heart belonged to his family. Whether cracking a joke, planning his next trip, attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, or simply spending time with his daughters, Jerry lived fully, loved deeply, and gave generously of himself.

His legacy of love, laughter, commitment to his military brothers, and unwavering faith in God will live on in all who knew him.

All are welcome to attend his Celebration of Life at Faith Bible Church, 1800 46th St. NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402, September 13, 2025. Visitation: 9:30 AM, Funeral: 11:00 AM with luncheon to follow. A private burial will be held at a later date.