A Generous Spirit
Marilyn Walsh Bunn '54
Marilyn Walsh Bunn '54 was known for her kindness, generosity and her devout faith. These character traits were woven throughout her life and evident in her interactions with people, the choices she made and the legacy she left.
Born in Springfield, Illinois, she grew up helping her dad at the family-owned gas station, pumping gas and helping customers. She was an accomplished musician, winning a gold medal in piano. She attended Catholic schools and it was in these foundational years her faith developed.
She chose Quincy College (now Quincy University) after visiting with her high school. While at the college, she was active in student life and was a member of the cheerleading team. She enjoyed her time at college and in correspondence many years later, she said that QU was the friendliest school in the U.S.
"My time at Quincy College was some of the most wonderful years of my life," said Marilyn. "I met wonderful faculty members and very special friends. The teachers gave me the right foundation to live for the rest of my life."
Marilyn and John Bunn on their wedding day
After college, she returned to the Springfield area and worked for Illinois Bell. She later married her husband of 39 years, John Bunn. In the early years of their marriage, John was helping his brother, George, market his new invention, the Bunn O' Matic.
John and Marilyn traveled all over the U.S. with a Bunn O' Matic in the backseat of their little Volkswagen. They visited food and beverage shows, marketing the machine and hiring new salespeople. In 1964, they moved back to the Springfield area and adopted two daughters, Kelly (d.14) and Margaret.
No matter where she lived, Marilyn connected to church and the community. While she enjoyed playing golf and the piano and volunteering at the Springfield Art Association, she mostly filled her days with helping and serving others.
"She was so special. Mom was always looking out for others, making sure they had what they needed," says her daughter, Margaret. "She was a giving and loving person."
Marilyn with the Quincy College Cheer Squad in 1951
Ever the cheerleader, she walked alongside her family and friends, cheering them on, lending a hand and doing what she could with what she had. Today, her impact and influence go beyond those who knew her. Because of her generous spirit, and the love she had for QU, she remembered QU in her estate. The students walking Francis Hall today will never know her, but her generosity has helped the next generation of students receive an education in the Franciscan tradition.
Every Gift Matters
No matter the size of your gift, whether 1% or 100%, you can make a difference for future generations of QU students. Please contact Matt Bergman at 217-228-5221 or bergmma@quincy.edu to learn more.
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