USAFA Class Histories

Dick chose to take a commission in the US Navy.  He was selected for Nuclear Power/Submarines training. After successfully completing Nuclear Power School and Nuclear Power Prototype training, Dick was selected to stay in Idaho Falls as an instructor at the Nuclear Power Prototype facility. Following that, Dick went to New London, Connecticut for Submarine School. Dick served 7 years active duty, including a tour as a Plank Owner on the USS Guardfish. Following military life, Richard went to work as a Chemical Engineer for Exxon Chemicals in Baytown, TX. He enjoyed a long and successful career, and retired from Exxon in 1999. Dick and Karel moved to Loveland, CO, where they purchased and restored a 100 year old Victorian house. Dick was active in the community and many local organizations. He particularly enjoyed the Loveland Fishing Club, and helping children learn to fish in the Loveland Police Fishing Derby. Dick passed away in March 2007. He is survived by wife Karel Bunce of Loveland, CO, children Phillip Bunce and Christine Bunce of Austin, TX, and sister Alma Alber of Boulder, CO.

Following contributed by Dick`s son Phil Bunce:

Richard `Dick` Bunce, Class of 1963, passed away March 30, 2007 at his home in Loveland, Colorado.

After graduation, Dick followed in his father`s footsteps and accepted a commission in the U.S. Navy. He served seven years active duty as a nuclear engineer on submarines, and achieved a rank of Lieutenant Commander. Dick was part of a family history of service.  His father was a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, Class of 1932, and a submariner.  Dick`s son is a Naval Academy graduate, Class of 1988, and a surface warfare office.  Three generations of academy graduates – covering air, surface, and sub-surface.

After leaving active duty, Dick worked 29 years as an engineer for Exxon Chemicals.  In recent years, Dick enjoyed his retirement in Loveland with his wife Karel.  He was active in several community organizations, including the Loveland Historical Society, Rabbit Hole Radio Theater, the Rainbow Chorus and the Loveland Fishing Club.

He particularly enjoyed fly fishing and was occasionally crazy enough to go out ice fishing! Although from the stories, it seems that ice fishing is more about hanging out, drinking beer and telling tall tales. 

Dick is survived by his wife of 42 years, Karel; two children, two grandchildren, and many pets and grand-pets.  He is missed by all!

(Phil Bunce, Dick`s son)