Karl John Kunkle

Karl John Kunkle, 75, of Irwin, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on September 5, 2026, after a hard fought and courageous battle with Multiple Myeloma. Being diagnosed only 17 days prior is a reminder to live each day to the fullest as Karl did. He was born in Wilkinsburg on May 12, 1951. Karl was the third child of the late Robert H. and Louise (Hellmann) Kunkle and was a proud member of the Norwin Class of 69’. He attended Duquesne University majoring in Voice Studies. His phenomenal voice was a true gift to others. He was a 21-year member of the Irwin Male Chorus including 11 years as Business Manager, a member of Westmoreland Choral Society, WCCC Community Choir, Lead Singer in “Johnny Mars and the Planets”, and soloist for over 150 weddings. This included singing for a couple, and years later for their child’s wedding. He was an active member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Irwin, where he proudly sang in their choir, had taught Sunday School, had served on Church Council, and devoted much effort as Property Chairman leading renovations to improve the church. He was a hard-working self-employed business owner for Kunkle’s Painting & Services, a job he held for 42 years, retiring in 2018. He took great pride in his meticulous work and always made sure to leave a home looking tidier than when he arrived. Retirement gave him the opportunity to golf badly, repeatedly, with his golf buddies Regis and Bill. Karl is survived by his devoted wife of 41 years, Deborah (Nabuda) Kunkle, his loving daughter, Karly (Chris) Kochanov, and his sister, Sally (Tom) Sheakley, mother-in-law Patricia (Robert) Shafer of FL, sisters-in-laws, Marion Kunkle, Patricia (Ken) Colman of NC, Sandra Nyberg of FL, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother Robert C. Kunkle, and sister, Carole Bilesimo. There will be a Celebration of Life service at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 502 Main Street, Irwin, PA, at 11 am on Saturday, September 26. All are welcome to attend a luncheon downstairs at the church after the service. Bring a favorite memory about Karl to share as we honor his life. Please pass on a random act of kindness in his memory in the coming days. He was a people person who was known for showing kindness and generosity toward his family, friends, and community. If you are planning on coming to the luncheon, please email DJK721@verizon.net, at your earliest convenience and provide the names of those who will be attending. Additional parking will be available at William Snyder Funeral Home parking lots across the street from the church. Memorial donations may be directed to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. The William Snyder Funeral Home, Irwin, is handling arrangements and online condolences can be shared at www.snyderfuneralservices.com.

Karl John Kunkle

May 12, 1951 - September 5, 2026