J. T. Morriss & Son Funeral Homes

Unger, Sr., COL Raymond B.

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

COL Raymond B. Unger, Sr., U. S. Army (Retired), 84, beloved husband of Mary Bowling Unger, lifelong military man, and longtime resident of Petersburg, passed away peacefully at his residence on Tuesday, June 10, 2008. Born in Haven, Kansas, he was the son of the late Agapit and Caroline Giefer Unger. While in active duty, Ray served in both the Pacific and the European fronts in World War II, Korean Conflict, and Vietnam War. After retirement, he served as executive director of Battlefield Park Swim & Racquet Club. He was a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and active in the community through involvement with the Retired Officers Association, Lions Club, and Knights of Columbus. COL Unger was preceded in death by two sisters, Agnes Allen of Mt. Hope, KS and Rose Falk Seidl of Goddard, KS, and a brother, Leo Unger. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Judy K. Martin, Peggy M. Higgins, Larry Joe Unger, and Raymond B. Unger, Jr.; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Caroline Hill of Wichita, KS; and brother, Matthew Unger of Naperville, IL. A Christian wake service will be held at 6:00 PM Friday, June 13, at St. Joseph Catholic Church followed by visitation until 8:00 PM. A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 10:00 AM Saturday at the church with Father Steve Antes, Celebrant. Interment with full military honors will follow at Southlawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Joseph Cemetery Fund, 151 W. Washington Street, Petersburg, VA 23803. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.

Susan and I were sad to hear the news of Col Unger's passing. I first met Ray when I was only 7 years old and he, Mary and their family lived in the same stairwell as us in Germany. I remember taking family vacations in Germany and Italy with him being a "hoot" throughout the trips. Many years later in life when Susan and I were stationed at Ft Lee it was our pleasure to often see Mary and Ray as dear friends and as a part of the retired QM community. Ray lived life to the fullest. We will miss Ray, his smile and his humor.

Posted by: Terry & Susan Juskowiak, Major General, USA (Ret) at June 17, 2008 02:08 PM

As the Manager of the Officers Club Col Unger and I did a lot of business together I always found him to be the true professional that he truly was.To the Family you are in our hearts and prayers.
Ron

Posted by: RON SIMS at June 15, 2008 03:58 PM

We were very sorry to hear of Col. Unger's passing. We've had the pleasure of living directly across the street from the Ungers for the past 19 years. His knowledge and cheerful spirit will certainly be missed. Our prayers go out to Mrs. Unger and the entire family.

Posted by: Mrs. McDaniel & Family at June 13, 2008 09:57 PM

To Mrs. Unger,
I just read with great sadness about Col. Unger' death.
I had the pleasure of working for him at Battlefield Park for many years. He was a wonderful person. He had a tremendous work ethic that still inspires me. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Lots of love,
Kelly Kirkpatrick Evko
14402 Greenwood Church Road
Montpelier, Va 23192

Posted by: Kelly Kirkpatrick Evko at June 13, 2008 04:13 PM

Sorry we will not make it to VA for the services. I will always remember going to Battlefield Park in the summers and being greeted with a warm smile from Ray & Mary. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Posted by: Jennifer Bowling Burnette & family at June 13, 2008 01:27 PM

I was saddened to hear of Col. Unger's passing. I first got to know him over 35 years ago when his son Raymond and I were at Gibbons. In the years since, we spoke to each other whenever we met in passing. His friendship will be treasured, and his kindness will be sorely missed.

Posted by: Deborah Bice at June 13, 2008 11:26 AM

More than a grandfather! An advisor, a mentor, a teacher and a friend. At this time, there are no words to express our deep feelings of sorrow. The world has lost a great man this week and the heavens have gained an angel. Our memories of you will be cherished forever.

Love,
Jimmy, Janice, Chris and Jacob

Posted by: The Hobson Family at June 13, 2008 09:36 AM