Jerry Lee Bunch, 63, of Concordia, Kansas died on September 20, 2023 at Salina Regional Hospital after heart difficulties. At Jerry’s request, he was generously able to make life changing donations through Midwest Transplant Network.

Jerry was born in Beloit, Kansas on March 9, 1960 to Lila Mae (Staley) Bunch and James “Jim” Wesley Bunch Sr.

Jerry’s father was in the army, which allowed him to grow up in many places including Alaska, Virginia, Oklahoma, Georgia, South Carolina, California, and Germany. He graduated from Downs High School in 1979.

He started college at Fort Hays State University in 1980, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. He was thrilled to find out his eldest granddaughter became an attorney and his second eldest granddaughter a court reporter. Jerry was a man that loved his family deeply and shared about them with anyone who would listen. Jerry was known for his elaborate and descriptive stories of his life, career, and family. He was a lifelong learner and enjoyed history, especially Kansas and Native American history. He was an avid reader and lover of western films, which he enjoyed watching with his grandsons. Jerry was a die-hard Raiders football and Royals baseball fan. One of his favorite things to do was watch his grandsons play sports. He was always their biggest fan.

Rhonda and Jerry were married on April 15, 1995 in Concordia, at Chances R, the place they met and instantly fell for each other. They were married for 28 years. Many say that they “saved” each other.

Jerry started his career with the Department of Corrections in Norton, Kansas in October 1994 serving there until May of 2002, before transferring to Ellsworth Correctional Facility until his retirement. He served faithfully for 20 years as a “man of his word” and “going by the book.” Then in typical Jerry fashion, he finished his career at Cloud County Corrections, working till the day he passed.

Being a husband, father, and grandpa were the greatest joys of his life.

Jerry is survived by his wife, of the home; son, Heath Dvorak and wife, MeLissa, of Concordia; daughter, Amanda Matzke and husband, Blake, of Concordia; 8 grandchildren, Kirstyn Malloy (Josh), Kayla Dvorak, Hayden Dvorak, Skylar Plush, JoAnn Plush, Isabelle Plush, Madyx Dvorak, Graeme Matzke; and many extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his mother, father, eldest brother, Jr., and infant brother, Stanley; and lifelong friends, Kent and Sue Chesney.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 14th, from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, at the American Legion, 506 Washington St, Concordia, Kansas.

Memorials may be made to the family to be determined later.