Bernard Bunz

December 19,1950-June 15, 2023 Riverside, CA

Bernard (Ben) Gerald Bunz left us on the 15th of June 2023. Born on the 19th of December 1950 in Waterloo, Iowa to William and Colleen Bunz. Bernard and his family moved from Waterloo to Roseville, California where he spent his formative years.

A sizable athlete and robust scholar --Bernard excelled in both. Through the years he maintained high academic marks and lettered multiple years in high school sports. As a senior at Roseville High School, he led the football team and was named Senior Class President. Bernard’s academic and athletic success eventually led him to Riverside, California where he attended the University California Riverside (UCR). Bernard continued to find success on the football field and played in a NCAA championship. He received his undergraduate degree from UCR in 1974 and continued to coach and mentor. Early on Bernard resumed his education with his graduate work and received his master’s in education. This would lead him to working for San Bernardino and Riverside County school districts. For 37 years Bernard was a servant to the community. A selfless man who gave freely, shared his talents, intellect, and passion.

During his time at UCR Bernard crossed paths with a professional ballerina, Tracy. From the first moment they met it was love at first sight. Wildly devoted to each other, Bernard and Tracy married and called Riverside, CA home for over 45 years. Bernard and Tracy had two sons: Benjamin and Joshua. Bernard’s devotion, passion and love for his family was always first and always on display.

Gallantly looking forward, Bernard spent his retired years traveling the world with his love Tracy, reveling in history, literature, art and his childhood team the San Francisco 49ers. He was constantly surrounded by the family and people who loved him.

Bernard the gentle giant, always quick with a smile, a mammoth hug, and conversations of today and tomorrow. Continuingly sharing truths, wisdom, beliefs, and love. He lived every day with abundance and faith’s renewal; always teaching of yielding grace. Bernard leaves behind his wife of 45 years Tracy, sons Benjamin (Lane), Joshua (Mallory), grandchildren Brigitte, Wyatt, and Blaire, brothers Dennis (Joyce), Danny (Elizabeth), Chad, Kenny, and Brian. He also leaves Stanley (Kathleen), Patrica and all his nieces and nephews