Brian R. Bunker, age 58

Brian Russell Bunker, better known as Bunky was born January 3, 1967 to parents Francis and Doris Bunker. He was the youngest of five siblings and was the baby of the year, being the first born in the area for 1967. He grew up in Flandreau and graduated from Flandreau High School in 1986.
An article written by Carleen Wild in the Moody County Enterprise on January 8, 2025 beautifully outlines Bunkys life. It reads:
Bunker, or Bunky as most people know him, grew up in Flandreau and has spent nearly his entire life here.
I never really left, he told the Moody County Enterprise. I moved away for a few months, but I came right back. Ive lived here pretty much all my life.
Its been a good life, too, hell tell you. After graduating from Flandreau Public Schools, Bunky spent nearly 16 years volunteering for the county ambulance service. In 2000, he began working various farm and labor jobs in the area.
But in 2011, life took a sudden turn when he suffered a significant stroke. Doctors warned him to avoid stress to prevent another life-threatening episode.
Instead of slowing down completely, Bunky adapted and with his trusty cart in hand to help steady him as he walks, Bunky has quietly become a fixture in Flandreau.
I like to wander around, say hi to people, and keep the town looking nice, Bunky said, humble about the role he plays.
Thats just what I do. Ive got several places I go. I pick up cans along the street. Its been good for me. Every day I usually get a full container.
Bunk stores his cans in a shed on one end of town. When he gets tired, he stops for the day. And when the shed fills up, a friend takes him to Sioux Falls to exchange them.
The tin can man, as locals affectionately call him, doesnt do it for the money. For Bunky, its about giving back keeping the streets clean, staying active, and building connections along the way. The pennies he earns per pound go into his savings account or toward supporting some of the only family he has left In a quiet, unassuming way, Bunky has become a symbol of dedication and kindness in Flandreau. He asks for nothing in return but a hello and a smile and perhaps a few of your used aluminum cans.
I just do what I can, hell tell you, with a smile.
Throughout his life, Bunky enjoyed playing darts, participating in dart tournaments, and swimming. He was an avid Vikings fan, and nothing made him happier than spending time with friends and family. He never missed a loved ones birthday or special occasion. There was nothing on earth that Bunky wouldnt do for a Buddy Old Pal.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Doris; siblings, Doug and Rosemary, and infant nephew, Donovan.
Bunky is survived by brothers: Dick (Sharon) Bunker and Keith Bunker; two nieces: Angie and Brittany; one nephew: Devin; many grand nieces and nephews; close friends: Sherrill and Tim Broekhuizen and family, Shari and Kevin Hammer and family, Judy Eldridge and family, and many, many Buddy Old Pals.
A memorial service was held Monday, July 21 with burial in the Ss. Simon and Jude Cemetery, Flandreau.
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