Mitch Bunch

Mitchell Louis Bunch passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026 at the age of 82. 

Mitch, “Big Papa” to his family, was born August 28, 1944 in Kittery Maine to Louis Livingston Bunch and Mavis Echols Bunch-Strozier. After his father passed away when he was young, Mitch was blessed with a wonderful Bonus Dad, John Paul Strozier. The majority of Mitch's early years were spent in and around Atlanta, Georgia.

Mitch was a true music lover who could sing and dance up a storm; a love he shared and passed along to his children. He played a variety of instruments - Violin, Clarinet, Saxophone, and Trumpet - in concert and marching bands throughout his school years.

A childhood Polio survivor, Mitch was an incredible athlete, playing basketball all through grade school, into college and beyond. He played semi-pro for Eastern Airlines for several years.  He was an avid bowler with one amazing Second Place Finish leaving him “this close" to a pro bowling opportunity.  Having a pool cue in hand was Mitch's Happy Place. His life-long passion for billiards was where his talent shined brightest. Mitch was integral in forming the R.C. Owens memorial Eight-Ball League over 30 years ago, a league he played in with his sons and grandsons, and is still going strong today. 

Mitch had an impressive career in Sales and Marketing. He spent 20 years with Eastern Airlines, making Pensacola a major freight hub. His talents helped many businesses achieve growth goals and was instrumental in the success of several start-up ventures. Many of Mitch’s favorite adventures were during his time at Cordova Travel, where he was awarded the Pensacola Chamber Small Business Man of the Year. Mitch was extremely proud of his accomplishments as the first Executive Director at Wesley Haven Villas, where he retired.

While attending Middle Georgia College, Mitch met Marianne and almost instantly they became inseparable. They were married 45 years. Together they raised four children, coached hundreds of Little League teams, led Scout Troops, and took so many family vacations and romantic escapes. They built a home with a revolving door of love and welcome where they spoiled all the grandkids.

After Marianne passed away, Mitch was grateful to find another loving partner, Sandra Stanley, with whom he could continue to laugh, love, and enjoy his sunset years. They had a lot of wonderful times together that Mitch truly treasured.

Mitch was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Marianne. He leaves behind to keep his witty humor thriving- the love of his final chapter, his partner, Sandra Stanley. Four children Lauri (Daniel), Leonard (Sara), Larry (Sherri), and Lisa. His three siblings Mike (Cheryl), Bev (Bill), and Paula. Nine grandchildren: Steven (Paula), Jonathan, Carrie, William (Megan), Darian (Tiffany), Mairian (Chase), Christina (Logan), Duncan, and Kameron.  Nine great grandchildren Skyler (Marcus), Sierra (Christian), Ethan, Tucker (Bianca), Ella, Piper, Katelyn, Zachary, and baby Claire due in October. Four great-great grandchildren - Koda, Kai, Levi, and Clayton.

Bonus daughters LeAnn (Joshua) and Nikki (George), two Bonus grandkids Tiffany and Katlyn and their children. Mitch had many cousins, Nieces and Nephews, and extended family he loved dearly. Friends that became family- Floyd, Ramsey, Tina, Deb, Nancy, Warren, and his pool league pals. Along with a vast circle of friends too broad to list. Special gratitude to Teresa of GracePoint Hospice who cared for Mitch, and stayed with Sandra, during his final days.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wolfe-Bayview Funeral Home, Fairhope. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday September 5th at 2:00, American Legion 340, 8890 Ashland Ave., Pensacola, FL. Family friendly with all ages welcome. His family is asking everyone to wear Cocoa-Cola Red, Pool Table Green, or your favorite Pool League attire. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association, a local youth sports organization, or a high school music program of your choice are requested. Services in Fairhope will be held at a later date.