Nancy Kunnemann

Nancy Bush Kunnemann, 73, of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026.

Nancy was born on December 29, 1952 in Bellaire, Texas, to Joseph Hermon Bush and Jacqueline Bush Richardson. She moved from Texas at a young age and spent most of her childhood in Glen Ellyn. Nancy attended Western Illinois University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Special Education and later a master’s degree. While at Western, she met and fell in love with her future husband, Dennis Karl Kunnemann.

After college, Nancy returned to Glen Ellyn, where she spent her most cherished years raising what she called a “wonderful family" with Dennis. She spent most of her free time over the years doing what she loved: camping, enjoying live music, reading and spending time with loved ones. Nancy particularly enjoyed hosting a neighborhood block party every 4th of July. This tradition, which lasted for 31 years was cherished and enjoyed by many. Her empathetic and caring nature guided a devoted career in education, including several years teaching at Downers Grove North High School, where she touched and inspired many students. After retirement, Nancy's grandchildren became her greatest joy; she often said they gave her renewed purpose.

In recent years, Nancy struggled with complications from a major stroke. Though her passing is deeply mourned, her family takes comfort in Nancy finally being reunited with Dennis, who predeceased her. She wanted everyone to know that she lived "the most amazing life.”

Nancy is survived by her sons, Ryan Kunnemann and Michael Kunnemann; daughters-in-law Elissa Kunnemann and Sasha Kunnemann; Grandchildren Dennis, Caleb, Kane, Deegan, and Theodore Kunnemann; Sisters, Peggy Bush Mesch, Beth Kinsey; Brother, Rick Bush; Brother-In-Law Gary Kunnemann and many Nieces, Nephews, Great Nieces and Great Nephews. 

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, April 3, 2026, with open house hours from 6:00–9:00 PM at The Lake Ellyn Boathouse, 645 Lenox Rd, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made towards stroke research at Penn Medicine mail to: Office of the Treasurer, PO Box 71332, Philadelphia, PA 19176-9913 or rare cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering through Cycle for Survival mail to: 633 3rd Avenue, Fifth Floor, New York, NY 10017.

Any questions, please call Leonard Funeral Home of Glen Ellyn (630) 469-0032 or send an email to leonardmemorialhome@gmail.com

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