Odell Bunch

MARBLE HILL, Mo. -- Odell D. Bunch, 80, of Marble Hill died Monday, Feb. 14, 2011.

He was born May 18, 1930, in Milan, Mo., son of Dora and Lola Bunch.

Odell received a bachelor's degree from Kirksville, Mo., and retired from Equitable in 1985 after 26 years of traveling extensively across the U.S. and working as a vice president out of New York City. During that time and after retirement, he traveled with his wife and partner, Brenda Bunch, overseas with his wholesale and retail jewelry business.

In 1989 he moved to Marble Hill with wife and youngest daughter, Christina, where he cattle farmed until recently.

Odell is survived by his wife, Brenda Bunch of Marble Hill; daughters Penelope Pistono and husband David Pistono of Bolivar, Tenn., Cynthia Laspesa of Chicago; a son, Frank Fernandez and wife Francis of Tucson, Ariz.; a daughter, Christina Kester and husband Todd of Millersville; seven grandchildren, Antonio Pistono, Danella Pistono, Sarah Laspesa, Joseph Fernandez, Candice Fernandez, Casey Kester and Tate Kester.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dora; mother, Lola Bunch; three sisters, Katelle McCullum, Bonnie Daniels and Deloma Dunlop.

He served his country as a Marine in special services during the Korean conflict from Feb. 21, 1952, to Feb. 11, 1954.

A memorial service will be held at Sargent's Chapel in Sedgewickville, Mo., in approximately two weeks. The exact date to be announced.

McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson is in charge of arrangements.