Dean Roger Bunce

Dean graduated from Central Washington State University with a bachelor’s degree and later earned a master’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado. He devoted more than 24 years to active duty in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1982. During the Vietnam War, he served at Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand. His military career was recognized with numerous honors and decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Air Force Commendation Medal.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, Dean worked as a business broker and later as a financial planner with Waddell & Reed, where he retired. He served as a deacon at various churches throughout the San Antonio area.

Dean enjoyed reading Louis L’Amour Western novels, fly-fishing, gold panning, and flying. He earned his private pilot’s license through the Randolph Air Force Base Aero Club. He also never turned down a bowl of good old-fashioned vanilla ice cream—especially if apple pie was involved.

Dean is survived by his son, Brian, and Brian’s wife, Susan; his daughter-in-law, Joy; his grandchildren, Andrew Bunce and his wife, Christy, Michael Bunce, Emily Fox and her husband, Chris, and Jacobus Thompson; his seven great-grandchildren, Braden and Evelyn Bunce, Paxton and Liam Bunce, and Joshua, Leviticus, and Kathyrne Trevino; and his sister, Mavis Underwood.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Nancy; his son, Jeffrey, Joy’s husband; and his seven siblings, Galeva Arlene Bunce, Charles Arthur Bunce, Blain Alfred Bunce, Bernal Albert Bunce, Velda Leone Bunce, Wilbur William Bunce, and Wayne Alvin Bunce.

Special thanks are extended to David Lindow, First Baptist Church of Universal City, and the many friends who loved and supported our family.

Over the past year, our family was reminded just how valuable the gift of time can be. In lieu of flowers or donations, we ask that you spend time with your family and the people you love. We also encourage you to remember an elderly friend, neighbor, or someone in a care facility who may not have family nearby or regular visitors. A visit, a conversation, or simply spending a little time together can mean more than you might imagine. You may also find that the stories, memories, and wisdom they share become a gift to you in return. Time is the most precious gift we can give.

Military honors will be rendered in recognition of Dean’s more than 24 years of service in the United States Air Force.

Visitation will be held on August 18, 2026, from 3:00pm to 3:50pm., at First Baptist Church of Universal City, 1401 Pat Booker Rd, Universal City, TX 78148. A Funeral Service with Military Honors will immediately follow from 4:00pm to 5:00pm.