Emil Joseph Nunnink

Joe Nunnink, 91, of Shawnee, Kansas, died January 14, 2012, at his home.

Joe was born June 26, 1920 in Shawnee, Kansas. He served with the Army Air Corp in Italy during WWII. Following the war he was united in marriage to Betty Pflumm on May 18th 1946. Together they operated the J & B Variety Store from 1957 to 1971. Afterwards Joe started Nunnink Construction Company. He was a lifelong member of St. Joseph’s Church in Shawnee, KS and an usher for 25 years. He was a 4th Degree Knight in the Knight’s of Columbus and a Former Grand Knight. He was a member of the VFW and the American Legion.

He was preceded in death by his son, Andrew Joseph Nunnink, three sisters, and two brothers. Joe is survived by his loving wife of 65 years Betty; a daughter Mary Owens (Jon); sons, Jerome Nunnink (Kathryn) and Robert Nunnink (Laura); six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and close family friend Mercedes Castillo.

Joe was well known in Shawnee for his honesty, hard work and love of gardening. He was very proud of his time in the service and of his family. Joe was a role model not only for his children, but also his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by his loving family and many friends.

A visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 18, 2012, at the Amos Family Chapel of Shawnee. Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, January 19, 2012, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Shawnee, Kansas. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 5901 Flint, Shawnee, Kansas 66203 or Advantage Hospice, 6340 Glenwood, Suite 109, Overland Park, Kansas 66202.