Lola Mae Brunk, 76, of Independence, Missouri, passed away peacefully in her home on Monday, September 9, 2019, with her constant companion, Chesty, at her side.  A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 12^th at Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home, 1823 N Blue Mills Rd, Independence, MO 64058.

Lola was born on February 4, 1943 in Clear Springs, Missouri, to John and Lola Bradford. She was raised on the family farm in Clear Springs with her 5 sisters and 6 brothers. Lola attended Willow Springs High School, where she graduated in 1961.  On April 20, 1963, she was married to Arthur L. Brunk, who would be her husband and best friend for the remaining 56 years of her life. Lola moved to Independence in 1970, when Arthur, a Marine, was assigned to recruiting duty there. Residing in the same house for over 49 years, Lola took part in raising 6 boys, 7 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and her many dogs. She loved her family (this included the dogs) and friends and was always there for anyone who needed help.

Lola was preceded in death by her parents, John and Lola Bradford; her sisters: Ruth Bradford, Ruby Miller, and Bonnie Cox; and her brothers: Dud Bradford and Richard Bradford.

Lola is survived by her husband, Arthur Brunk; four brothers: Bud Bradford, Earl Bradford, Jack Bradford & wife Peggy, and Joe Bradford; two sisters: Betty Murfin and Peggy Nelson & husband Gary; six sons: Jim Brunk & wife April, Jay Brunk & wife Stephanie, Jeremy Brunk, Joe Brunk & wife Bianca, Justin Brunk, and Kyle Brunk & wife Brianna; seven grandchildren: Mercedes Greenthaner & husband JP, Bradley Bartlett, Jacob Brunk, Noah Brunk, Caleb Brunk, Ryder Johnson, and Kyler Brunk; four great-grandchildren: Luca Bartlett, Elle Bartlett, Maddy Greenthaner, and Delilah Bartlett; many nieces and nephews; and her dog, Chesty.

Arrangements:  Royer’s New Salem, Independence, MO   816-796-8600