Jeffery Alan Unger

Jeffery Alan Unger, of Shawnee, KS, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on the morning of August 28, 2024, after a brave four-month battle with lymphoma and leukemia. He was 61 years old.

Jeff was born on October 9, 1962, in Washington, MO. He graduated from Spring Hill High School in 1981, where he was actively involved in marching band, wrestling, cross country, and track.

In 1983, Jeff enlisted in the United States Army, serving both as an Enlisted Soldier and a Commissioned Officer. He cherished his time on active duty, especially his role as an Air Traffic Controller at Ft. Rucker, AL. After receiving his commission at Ft. Benning, GA, Jeff served in the reserves and the Kansas National Guard until 1995. 

Following his military career, Jeff pursued his passion for computers as a self-taught programmer. He returned to school from 2002-2006, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Kansas at the age of 43.

Jeff was deeply involved with the Boy Scouts of America, serving as a Scout Leader from 2007-2015. During this time, he earned his prestigious Wood Badge and was honored in 2013 for his exemplary service. As an avid outdoors-man, Jeff mentored numerous scouts, helping them achieve their dreams of becoming Eagle Scouts. One of his most cherished experiences was attending Philmont, a high-adventure scouting program in New Mexico. He formed lasting friendships through scouting that remained strong until his passing. 

A devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Jeff volunteered in many capacities, including serving on the Social Action Committee, mentoring young members in confirmation class, leading as an usher, and setting up the church network.

Jeff was a man of diverse interests and talents. He brewed his own beer, had a passion for photography with his own darkroom for developing prints, and earned his Amateur Radio License in 2001, communicating with people worldwide. He enjoyed golfing, sailing and owned several Sweet 16 sailboats over a ten year period. In the last few years he developed an interest in welding and spent time in his garage making and fixing things.

His software engineering career saw him working for various corporations in the Kansas City area, culminating in his role as a Senior Software Engineer at Garmin from 2021 until his passing. Garmin provided Jeff with the opportunity to receive his private pilot’s license in 2023 and, most recently, his IFR certification. He was working towards his commercial license with hopes of retiring as a flight instructor.

Jeff’s greatest passion was the outdoors. He was an avid runner, biker, and swimmer, running 6-8 miles daily regardless of the weather. In 2013, he completed the KC Marathon with no prior training. A true adventurer, he participated in numerous triathlons and bike rides, occasionally covering over 100 miles. Jeff loved hiking and camping, and he consistently managed to outpace all who had the pleasure of joining him on these adventures, including a trip to Wind River, Wyoming, which was one of his treasured experiences.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Debbie Unger; his children, Joshua Unger (Erica), Courtney Unger, and Jacob Unger; his grandson, Paxton Unger; his parents, Donald and Evelyn Unger; his brothers, Tony Unger (Ginny) and Chris Unger; his sister, Abby Unger; and his mother-in-law, Barbara Nance. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, his father-in-law Harold Nance, and the family's beloved furry companion, Scout Unger.

Jeff’s faith, adventurous spirit, and enthusiasm for learning made him a cherished son, brother, husband, father, grandpa, and friend. His kindness, patience, and love of life will be deeply missed by everyone who was blessed to know him.

Jeff’s Day of Celebration will be on Saturday, October 5th. Join us to share stories, celebrate Jeff’s incredible life and accomplishments, and honor his service to our country.

The first celebration will be at Trinity Lutheran Church, 5601 W 62nd Street, Mission, KS. Fellowship will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a memorial service at 11:00am. 

The second celebration will be at the Commemorative Air Force Hangar Venue - 6 Aero Plaza East, New Century, KS. Military honors will be at 6:00 pm, followed by a celebration from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Commemorative Air Force, Heart of America Wing, 6 Aero Plaza, New Century, KS 66031 or Always and Furever, Midwest Animal Sanctuary (Little Red Barn), 23595 W 223rd St, Spring Hill, KS 66083. https://www.alwaysandfurever.org/donate/