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Kaul Funeral Home
OBITUARY

Gary Elwin Schunk

September 27, 1953 – April 2, 2021

Gary Schunk, age 67, passed away on April 2, 2021. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Natalie Schunk, and many friends and musical colleagues. Gary was a stellar classically trained jazz pianist based primarily in Detroit. He leaves behind a rich musical legacy. Gary was also a huge fan of drag racing.

A memorial mass will be held at St. Bonaventure on Mt. Elliott in Detroit on Saturday, June 19, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. Donations may be directed to Capuchin Soup Kitchen.

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Gary Elwin Schunk

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Peter Le Vine

April 13, 2021

Thank you for your amazing legacy and immeasurable inspiration to all of us. Peace and love to all of you and yours.
Pete

Br Nick Blattner Ofm Capuchin

April 13, 2021

On behalf of the Capuchin brothers I offer my deepest sympathies on the passing of Gary. It is truly humbling to receive memorial donations in honor of Gary's life. Please be assured of the brother's prayers for the entire Schunk family during this great time of grief. May perpetual light shine upon Gary.

Sheldon Larky

April 13, 2021

Gary accompanied two of the cantors at Congregation Shaarey Zedek in Southfield, Michigan for years. Gary was so talented. He music was inspirational. Whenever he played, I always acknowledged him and his talents. If I had a joke, I would tell him it, and it was fun to watch his smile. From classicial to spiritual to jazz, Gary was capable of everything. I will never forget him.

Karen Tomalis

April 11, 2021

Gary was a monster of a talent, it was always a joy to play with him! He will be greatly missed....condolences to his family.

Jim FLEMING

April 11, 2021

I was just listening to Linda Yohn's show and she mentioned that Gary had passed away. I knew Gary in the 80's when I was involved with the Montreux-Detroit Jazz Festival. Besides my memory of his wonderful artistry, I just recall what a wonderfully kind person he was. My thoughts go out to his daughter, your Dad was a great guy.

Pamela Wise-Harrison

April 11, 2021

Gary was a stellar jazz pianist. He played with my husband Wendell Harrison many times and I looked up to Gary, watching him perform. He was always very helpful and had a calming spirit. His spirit will still be at work even though he has left his physical body, so let's speak his name often and set a place at our table for him.

Bill Barbour

April 11, 2021

Gary was one of the most creative, artistic and skilled musicians I’ve ever heard. It was a privilege to perform with him. May he Rest In Peace.

Tom Starr

April 11, 2021

A friend, a mentor, a band mate, a source of inspiration. May you flow with the universe as you did with music. Sail on my brother. RIP

Paul Vornhagen

April 10, 2021

I am grateful that I shared the stage with Gary on many concerts and music venues throughout the Detroit Metro area and beyond. He always lifted the band up to another level of musicality--feeding us with chordal patterns that inspired. I will miss him as a musical brother of monumental importance. RIP dear Gary.

Joe Tiboni

April 10, 2021

Gary was a beautiful spirit on any bandstand he graced. Always swinging, funny, gracious and kind. A joy to work with. RIP!

FROM THE FAMILY

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