Travis L. Tunis

Anderson - Travis L. Tunis, 87, Anderson, died May 28, 2010 at his residence after an extended illness. He was born July 25, 1922 in Kempton, Indiana, and resided in Anderson. He graduated from Kempton High School in 1940 and voted "Most likely to be a Leader". He served in the U.S. Army from 1942-1946 in England, France and Germany. A portion of his service was on General Eisenhower's staff. He taught in the Indiana Business College in Marion, Indiana and retired as Senior Executive Vice President of the Anderson Banking Company in 1985. He was responsible for investments for the bank and all customer loans. Many customers called him "The Banker with the Smile". Previously, he was President of the Citizens Bank, Elwood, Indiana. He held offices in the Indiana Bankers' Association, NABAC, and was Chairman of Retirees of the Anderson Banking Company. Tunis was a member of Central Christian Church where he has served as Chairman of Trustees, Elder, Sunday School Teacher for Adults, Member Chairman and head of the "Lunch Bunch". He has served on the Evangelism and Search Committees. He was a member of the following boards: Junior Achievement, Red Cross, Gas Barns, Rotary Club Past President of the Elwood, Indiana Club, YMCA Treasurer, Harter House Treasurer at it's conception, Anderson Symphony Orchestra Treasurer, Emily Flynn Home for Senior Citizens and Chairman of the Salvation Army for 35 years. He was a Cub Scout leader and a member of the Fellows and Sponsors Club of Anderson University. Mr. Tunis was also a Board Member of Gruenewald Historic House for 15 years and President for four years. He served as Chairman of the Financial and Executive Committees. During his term as President, the Board took over ownership of the House from the City of Anderson, completely remodeled the working kitchen and bathroom, painted the exterior, added a museum with several old American flags one dating back to 1778. While in Elwood, he was responsible for creating the Wendell Willkie Park. In 2002, Mr Tunis was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash by Govenor O'Bannon. Travis was an avid collector of cuff links and collected some 3, 000 plus pairs. He shared his vast knowledge of his collection through various programs. Travis always had time for a smile and a hug for anyone that needed help. He was deeply proud of his children and grandchildren teaching them by example for the joy of giving and being involved. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary Jo Freeman Tunis; four children, Gregory L. Tunis Rebecca, Randall L. Tunis Karen, T. Bradley Tunis Sue and Teresa J. Keller Roger; 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He was preceded by his parents, Samuel A. & Ruth Hawkins Tunis. Visitation will be from 4-8:00 PM on Tuesday, June 1, 2010 at Robert D. Loose Funeral Homes & Crematory, South Chapel; 200 W. 53rd Street; Anderson and one hour pior to the service at the church. Services will be Wednesday, June 2, 2010 at 11:00 AM, at Central Christian Church; 923 Jackson Street; Anderson, with Rev. Rick Vale officiating. Burial will be in Kempton Cemetery-Kempton, Indiana. Memorial contributions may be made to the Gruenewald Historic House or Central Christian Church. www.LooseFuneralHomes.com

Travis L. Tunis

July 25, 1922 - May 28, 2010