Obituary of Martha B. Kunkel

Mrs. Martha Burt Kunkel, age 98, died Thursday, November 10, 2005 at her home in Gloversville, NY, following a long illness. She was born February 11, 1907 in Wheeling, WV, the daughter of the late David and Elizabeth McLain Burt. Martha was married to Dr. Robert S. Kunkel on May 28, 1930. They lived in Clifton Springs, NY before moving to Gloversville in 1933. Mrs. Kunkel was active in girl scouting for more than 85 years. She began scouting at the age of 12 in Wheeling, WV, and continued by becoming a leader for more than 70 years. She was instrumental in the girl scouting program in Fulton County, New York. She received the ?Thanks Badge,? the highest honor in girl scouting. Her mother also received the honor for her efforts in the Wheeling, WV area. Martha was also actively involved in both Camp Kowaunkami in Caroga Lake, and Hidden Lake in Lake George, NY. Martha made a difference in hundreds of young girl?s lives. Offering support and guidance to many, she often helped with problems and helping to build self-confidence in the young ladies she worked with. Through her efforts with girl scouts, she helped girls earn badges in subjects such as conservation, health care, cooking and childcare. Martha was an airplane spotter in Fulton County during World War II. She was active in the former Gloversville Community Chest, the Gloversville Business and Professional Women?s Association, and also served as President of the Gloversville School Board of Education. She is survived by her daughter, Margaret K. Ploss of New Canaan, CT; three sons, Dr. Robert S. Kunkel Jr. of Cleveland, OH, Dr. Allan B. Kunkel of Scherr, WV and Dr. Frederick W. Kunkel of Fort Myers, FL; 10 Grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Robert S. Kunkel in 1993, and by her daughter, Dorothy Lee Kunkel in 1944. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, December 10, 2005 at Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont St; Gloversville, NY with the Rev. Carson O. Mouser officiating. A Girl Scout Flag Ceremony will also take place to honor Mrs. Kunkel. Cremation took place at Park View Crematorium, Schenectady. Memorial contributions may be made to Girl Scouts, Mohawk Pathways Council, Inc; 1040 State St; Schenectady, NY 12307, or to the charity of your choice.