Frank P. Kunik

The family of Frank P. Kunik Sr. age 94, in sorrow but not without hope, announce his passing from this life to the next on June 10th, 2025, the fulfillment of their father's final wish to see his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ face-to-face. 

Dad was born on December 7, 1930, to John and Angela Kunik of Erie, Pennsylvania. The youngest of five children, he was the only one of his siblings born in the United States, his family having immigrated from Czechoslovakia in 1929. He grew up in Erie and after graduating High School joined the Army in 1949. Within months of his enlistment, the Korean War broke out and he found himself in the 51st Signal Battalion in Korea as a communications specialist. He was very proud of his service. When his tour of duty ended, he returned to Erie to attend college, work in a few different occupations, and meet his soon to be wife Carol.

In the late 1950s, he was hired by IBM's Federal Systems Division as a computer programmer. One of his many projects at IBM that he looked back on with pride was the Apollo Moon Landing program. He enjoyed a 32-year career with IBM retiring in 1990. Dad was a respected member of the community and served in many different capacities. He was a trustee and deacon at the First Congregational Church of Berkshire. After retiring he helped Mom deliver Meals on Wheels. He also served the people of Berkshire on the Planning Board and as Chair of the Board of Assessment Review.

In addition, he got his license to become a Notary Public. Local farmers and landowners came to the house for his notary seal for local agriculture land leasing agreements. Those who regularly used his services knew to bring a dollar to pay, but not for him. He kept a small bank on his desk, and they knew to put their dollar in it. The money wasn't for him for he would send it to organizations that helped the poor buy food. 

He put his knowledge and computer programming skills to use as treasurer for both NTNN (Northern Tioga Neighbors Network) helping them acquire their 501c3 status, and The Berkshire Community Association (BCA). He held his position as treasurer for the BCA right up until the moment he passed. We are thankful that he stayed mentally sharp right up to the last few months of his life.

Dad enjoyed the camaraderie of hunting and golfing with his family and friends. In the summer, he looked forward to our summer vacations in the Adirondack Mountains, renting a cabin on a lake, and especially to the time he and Mom got to spend together out on the water fishing. Dad and Mom also enjoyed their monthly get-togethers and travels with their special friends Joe and Dottie Shoytush and Alan and Judy Peterson.

Frank is survived by his children: Dale R. (Diane) Hill, Christopher A. Kunik, Kirsten L. (David) Michaud, Paul M. Kunik, Michael J. Kunik, many grandchildren, great grandchildren, two special nieces (Judy and Kathy) and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Carol L. Kunik, son Dr. Frank P. Kunik Jr., and granddaughter Angela (Burnett) Johnson.

Friends and family are invited to the First Congregational Church of Berkshire for a period of visitation on Thursday, June 19th, from 1 - 2 pm. This will be followed by a Memorial Service and Internment with his wife Carol at Berkshire's Evergreen Cemetery. His services will be officiated by Pastor Guy Kinney and his son Pastor Paul Kunik.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the First Congregational Church of Berkshire, 12445 State Route 38 Berkshire, NY 13736, in loving memory of Frank. MacPherson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and condolences may be written in Frank's guestbook at macphersonfh.com.