Adeline "Dell" Rose Bunata's Obituary
Adeline Rose Bunata, fondly known as "Dell," peacefully passed away on June 12, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on August 1, 1935, in Harwick, Pennsylvania, she was the youngest of seven siblings in a close-knit family deeply rooted in the community of a coal mining town. Dell was the daughter of Rose and Jan Daniel, Polish immigrants from Austria, whose hardworking spirit shaped her early years and instilled in her the values of Christian faith, resilience, gratitude, and the importance of family.
Dell's formative years were marked by both struggle and joy, as her family navigated life in a coal company house. The warmth of community bonds and cherished memories remained with her well into her life. After Jan's untimely passing in Chicago, Rose demonstrated incredible strength by purchasing a family resort on Powers Lake in Wisconsin, where Dell and her siblings learned the value of hard work and close familial ties. It was here that she developed her cherished philosophy: "It will all work out," demonstrating her unwavering faith and her ability to embrace whatever life brought her way.
In February 1955, Dell married the love of her life, Ernie Bunata, shortly after his return from military service during the Korean War. Dell and Ernie’s honeymoon was a move to Longview, Texas where Ernie attended LeTourneau College, earning his BS in mechanical engineering. Soon, they joined First Methodist Church Longview and became founding members of the Waddell Sunday School class. For the next few years, they faced the challenges of college life and parenthood together, embracing the time raising their children, Chip, Holly, and David, their church life, and special times with friends, family, and neighbors.
A remarkable woman of integrity and compassion, Dell became a beloved real estate broker who touched many lives with her warmth and kindness. Her legacy of love will be treasured by her son, Ernest (Chip) Bunata, and daughter, Holly Whittington, along with her grandchildren and extended family, all of whom carry forward her spirit in their hearts. From family gatherings filled with laughter to quiet moments of reflection, her influence remains deeply ingrained in the lives she touched.
Dell's remarkable journey left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She is survived by her loving son Chip and his wife Marylou, daughter Holly, granddaughters Meredith (husband Kevin), Kristin (husband Lance), and Britni (husband David) who, along with their friends, lovingly call her Nana. She was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren Tyler, Marissa, Adelyn, Lucas, Levi, Vivienne, and Madison. Dell was preceded in death by her husband Ernie, her parents, her siblings, Pauline, Bill, Ed, Teddy, Leo, and Gene, as well as her beloved son, David. Dell will be revered as a matriarch whose unwavering faith, endearing spirit, and ability to inspire others will never be forgotten.
Visitation and a service celebrating Adeline's extraordinary life will take place at Rader Funeral Home, August 1, 2026, Visitation at 9:30am with Services starting at 10:00am. The family invites all who knew and loved Dell to join them for a ceremony that reflects her vibrant spirit and enduring legacy. A burial will follow, honoring her life of faith and love.
As we remember Dell, let us carry forward her teachings of kindness, resilience, and community, embracing each day with gratitude, just as she did.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the First United Methodist Church, 400 North Fredonia Street, Longview, Texas 75601.
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