Sam Unnerstall

Sam Unnerstall

Kenneth J. "Sam" Unnerstall, 91, of Cape Girardeau died Monday, May 20, 2024, at his home.

He was born Jan. 23, 1933, at home in Cape Girardeau to Frank and Frieda Strong Unnerstall.

Sam was a 1951 graduate of Cape Girardeau Central High School.

He and Carol Ann Graves were married Aug. 23, 1957, in Cape Girardeau. She preceded him in death Dec. 21, 2004.

He served in the U.S. Army.

Following his Army discharge, he joined his father as a pharmacist at Unnerstall Drug Store, where they worked together for many years. Upon his father’s death, he took over the family business. He also worked at Broadway Prescription Shop as a pharmacist for several years.

He was a member of La Croix Church in Cape Girardeau.

Sam was also a member of the Cape Girardeau Jaycees, Otahki Girl Scout Council, Tater Hill Deer and Gun Club, a past member of the Elks Lodge and lifelong member of pharmaceutical organizations. He served as a board member for the Girl Scouts council for many years. He was a lifelong supporter of civic group and youth sports in Cape Girardeau.

He had a servant’s heart for those in need throughout his career. He loved his family dearly, as well as many friends, and always had a soft spot for animals. He never knew a stranger and was blessed by his many friendships.

Survivors include a daughter, Julia Unnerstall of Cape Girardeau; a son, John David Unnerstall of Sedgewickville; three grandchildren, Zachary John Stagner, Samuel David Unnerstall and Colton Jack Unnerstall; a sister-in-law, Jo Graves Nunnally; and three nieces, Maria Crites McMahan, Sally Crites Finch and Kristine Nunnally Danchise.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and a sister, June Crites.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 23, at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Friday, May 24, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Daniel Seabaugh officiating. Entombment, with full military honors, will be at Cape County Memorial Park Mausoleum in Cape Girardeau.

Memorial contributions may be given to La Croix Church or Southeast Missouri Pets.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.