Alfert Jay Bunnell Sr., age 78, of Oskaloosa, Iowa, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his family, under hospice care. He was born on February 26, 1947, in Oskaloosa, the son of Lester J. and Ruby L. (Dickerson) Bunnell. He attended Oskaloosa Schools. In July of 1966, Alfert joined the United States Army and served his country during the Vietnam War. After his honorable discharge from the Army in July 1969, he returned home to Oskaloosa. On October 25, 1969, he was united in marriage to Deborah Quick at the Nazarene Church in Oskaloosa.
Alfert worked at Clow Valve in Oskaloosa, then took a job at Pella Corp. Later he worked as a self-employed contractor until retiring. He enjoyed watching and feeding the birds around his home, woodworking in his garage and trying his luck with scratch off tickets.
He is survived by his wife, Deborah Bunnell of Oskaloosa, his children, Angella (P.J.) Veenstra of Oskaloosa, Alfert Bunnell Jr. of Oskaloosa, Dustin Bunnell of Oskaloosa and Heather (Travis) Stewart of Lovilla; 11 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren; his siblings, Delbert Bunnell and Gary Bunnell as well as lifetime friends, Oddie Anderson, Rick Walraven and Brenda and Steve Fox
Alfert was preceded in death by his parents; a beloved grandson, Brandon Michael Bunnell, a sister, Donna Lippold and a sister-in-law, Toni Quick.
As was his wish, cremation will take place and burial will take place at Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa at a later date. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the family.
