Barbara Kunkle, 65, of Centralia, passed away Friday, November 1, 2024, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
She was born February 19, 1959, in Cleveland, Ohio, the daughter of Harry Edward Balvin and Ruth Constance (Bruening) Balvin. On May 16, 1987, in Denver, Colorado, Barb married John Kunkle and he survives in Centralia.
In addition to her husband of 37 years, John Kunkle of Centralia, she is also survived by her brother: Norman Balvin of Arizona.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Barb had a “big life” by her husband’s side as an Army wife for over 22 years. They lived all over the country and abroad in Belgium and Germany. She was a motorcycle enthusiast and Harley rider on her Heritage Softail. She was a Scuba instructor for over 15 years. All while coaching, counseling, and mentoring many people over the years. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Per Barb’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and no public services will be held. Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, are honored to serve Barb’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home’s Facebook Page.
