James Burton Bunger

James Burton Bunger, 71, of New Hartford, passed away at home on Wednesday, January 18, 2024.  He was born December 10, 1952, in Waterloo, son of Milton and Velma (Messingham) Bunger.  Jim attended Cedar Falls High School then went to work for the Railroad as a signal man.  He retired in 2008.  On June 30, 1976, Jim married Deborah Kay LeGore in Colorado Springs, Colorado.  They later divorced.

Jim enjoyed outdoor activities, particularly hiking, camping and fishing when he was younger.  He and Deb purchased 40 acres on Cedar Wapsi Road in 1985.  It was his dream to own a large property and work with the conservation board to plant trees to preserve the habitat that he loved so much.  Jim was a jokester and enjoyed teasing people until he could win a smile.  Jim enjoyed spending time with the grandchildren when they came along.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Robert; and a sister, Cheryl Julander.  He is survived by his daughters, Erica Bunger of New Hartford and Olivia Averhoff of Cedar Falls; grandchildren: Maverick, Brooklyn, Katryna and Hailey; brother, Bill Bunger of Waterloo; and sisters, Patty Green of Chicago and Peggy Siebert of Johnston.

Jim's family will host a Celebration of Life at a later date and he will be laid to rest at Garden of Memories Cemetery of Waterloo next to his parents and brother.  Memorials may be directed to his family.