Milton LeRoy Bunce Jr.

Milton was born May 15, 1941, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Milton and Clara (Wilkerson) Bunce. In his youth he moved frequently and lived and attended school in half a dozen towns. At the age of 17, he joined the U.S. Navy. He served two tours from 1958-1962 as Electrician’s Mate and Petty Officer Third Class aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hancock (CVA 19) in the Pacific during the early days of the Vietnam War, and the destroyer USS Goodrich (DDR 831) in the Mediterranean. Milton was proud of his service in the Navy. A gifted storyteller, he was always willing to share a lively tale and enjoy those of others.

While on liberty in the Navy, he met Judith Ann Stansberry in Ottumwa, Iowa, and they carried on a long-distance courtship, writing each other for two years. They were engaged September 11, 1961, and married August 18, 1962, at East End Presbyterian Church in Ottumwa. They moved to Des Moines, where Milton worked for six years at Koch Brothers repairing office machines, followed by 36 years operating the Banbury rubber-mixing machine for Armstrong/Pirelli/Titan Tire. He and friends from United Steelworkers Local 164 were hired by the Des Moines Art Center, where Milton discovered his talent as an artist, and he became a familiar face at the Art Center as a security guard and trained as a docent. Always excited to discuss his art and works in the galleries with visitors, he retired this past February after 21 years.

Milton and Judy raised three children, David (Kathy) Bunce of Ankeny, Deborah (Michael) Jessen of West Des Moines, and Christopher (Stephanie) Bunce of Kansas City. Milton was proud to have helped all three of his children to attend and graduate from college.

An honorary member of the Des Moines New Horizon Band, Milton was a lifelong fan of Big Band music. He accompanied his wife Judy to her concerts and rehearsals for the past 16 years. Milton’s lifelong hobby was creating model airplanes and ships. He was a gentle, cheerful, and loving man who will be remembered warmly by everyone whose lives he touched.

Milton leaves behind his wife and three children, six grandchildren (Diana, Eric, David, Alec, Thomas, and Derek), two great-grandchildren (Alexandria and Amelia), and several furry grandkids. He enjoyed spending time with them all, but above all he was devoted to his wife of 58 years. Milton was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Carolyn, and his dog Lady.

A public gathering to honor Milton’s memory will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Animal Rescue League of Des Moines.