BUNKER, Alan Philip Steeves (Bud)
March 14, 1927 - July 4, 2015
Alan was born in North Vancouver to Charles F. and Eleanor Bunker. He attended elementary school in North Vancouver and after the family moved to the Dunbar area of Vancouver, he completed his high school at Lord Byng Secondary. After one year of university and not really knowing what he wanted to do, he worked in the logging industry on the coast. In 1951 he enrolled in Normal school and began his teaching career in Horsefly in 1952. That was followed by one year at 150 Mile House, a year in Lac la Hache and four years at Green Lake School, where he also drove school bus. Having had an interest in the trades, he enrolled in summer school and received certification to teach Industrial Education. He taught at David Stoddart Secondary School in Clinton from 1959 until 1978, when he moved to Smithers. He taught at Houston for three years and ended his career after five years teaching at Chandler Park. He retired in 1986 and enjoyed the following years gardening, farming and boating.
Alan and Phyllis (Reed) were married in 1957 and raised four children: Anita (Les) Trenerry, Teresa (Ken) Oulton, Sandra (Doug) Birkenthal, and Arnold (Arny) Bunker. He also leaves seven grandchildren: Lea (Adam) Bree, Kirstin and Amy Oulton, Kieran and Blake Trenerry and Kurt and Steven Bunker; and three great-grandchildren: Grayson and Peyton Bree and Cash Trenerry. Alan is also survived by his sisters; Marilyn Walsh of 83 Mile House, and Jacqueline Bunker of Burnaby.
Alan was always interested in sports and was particularly fond of soccer, which he considered the best game. During his teaching career he also coached many high school and community sports teams.
The family would like to thank Dr. Haskins and the Smithers Home Care nurses - Sandra, Maureen and Nelsie, for their assistance and support during Alan’s last days. There will be a Celebration of Life on August 15 at the Evelyn Community Hall. No flowers by request; however donations in Alan’s name to “Kid Sport BC” (kidsport.ca/bc), Athletics for Kids (www.a4k,ca), or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
Phyllis, Anita, Teresa, Sandra and Arny