Florence Charlotte Bunn

Born November 21, 1931, in Bell Station, Clackamas County, OR

Passed Away July 5, 2012, in Spokane, WA

Florence was the fourth of nine children born to Leslie and Mildred Bingham. She is survived by her beloved husband of 62 years, Ronald W. Bunn, and their four children: Carolyn (Eugene) Whiteley, Ronald “Doug” (Peggy) Bunn, Bonnie (Dan) Harding, Laurie (Gary) Grissom, 12 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, six siblings, two step-siblings, and numerous other relatives.

As a child, Florence had a vivid imagination. She enjoyed running free, looking at forests, clouds, flowers and gardens. She was never at loss for things to do with her siblings and loved being part of a large family.

At age 15, Florence and Ron went on their first date to a Youth For Christ Rally. As typical for Portland weather, it was raining. The song leader instructed everyone to hold hands and sing “Heavenly Sunshine”. Ron never stopped holding her hand.

Florence graduated from Franklin High School in Portland, OR, at the age of 16. She and Ron married on November 4, 1949, a few weeks before her 18th birthday. Together they built a home in Northeast Portland, which they filled with their four children. Florence enjoyed being a homemaker and mother. She particularly enjoyed baking, sewing, and teaching children. Her home was always open to neighborhood kids, nieces, and nephews.

She worked as an instructional aide in the Portland school district, retiring from Rigler Elementary School in 1993.

Florence faithfully taught Sunday School for over 65 years. Her favorite song was “Jesus Loves Me.” In her later years, she worked diligently to fill hundreds of shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse. She wanted children all over the world to enjoy a gift on Christmas and to know that Jesus loved them. Many people of all ages knew her as “Grandma Bunn.” Her pockets were always full of treats for the “kids” at church.

Florence loved a good party. She enjoyed entertaining in her home and cooking for potlucks. Some of her favorite dishes included cheesy potato casserole, taco pie, and “breakfast dessert.“ She also enjoyed baking cookies and other sweet treats.

In April 2011, she and Ron moved to Spokane for additional healthcare. She suffered from numerous health conditions. In spite of her pain, and the loneliness of separation from Ron due to his Alzheimer’s disease, she aspired to be a blessing and encourager to those around her. She touched many lives.

Florence slipped peacefully into the arms of her Savior on July 5, 2012. Her “long life” is now just beginning . . .

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM on August 4, 2012, at Mount Hood Christian Center, SE Palmblad Rd. Gresham, OR 97080. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse.