November 8, 1931 – August 1, 2024
BUTTE – Lucille Ann Kunz Sullivan passed away on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at The Springs of Butte. She was surrounded by her sons, John and Tom, and granddaughters, Shannon and Mary. Lucy was 92 years old.
Lucy was born in Centerville on November 8, 1931, to Peter and Catherine Kunz. She was the sixth of eight children in the family. In 1934, the Kunz family moved to North Walkerville to 22 Pearl St. Lucy spent most of her childhood there, reminiscing about the neighborhood’s first telephone and one of the first indoor toilets. One of her favorite family dishes was Ram-Noodla, made of eggs, flour, and sour cream, which remains a cherished meal for her children and grandchildren.
After a brief stay in California, Lucy returned to North Walkerville and stayed with her family until she got married in 1955. She always felt a strong connection to Walkerville and loved sharing stories from her childhood and early life there.
Lucy attended Sherman Grade School and Butte High School, graduating in 1950. Her working career started during high school, working at Butte’s Columbia Gardens. After graduation, she worked at the Murray Clinic and later at Butte Community Hospital. It was during her daily commute that she met Neil Sullivan, who eventually became her husband in 1955.
Neil and Lucy settled in Butte, raising their family in various homes until finally purchasing their long-term residence at 1421 W. Diamond. Lucy always cherished the time spent with her five children and the close-knit community of neighbors and extended family.
Throughout her life, Lucy was dedicated to volunteering in various roles within the community. She was involved in church activities, youth organizations, and hospital work. Lucy also enjoyed leisure activities like bowling, softball, and traveling with Neil. She was a lifelong friend to many, including her Volkswalk Club members, and had a love for cats.
After Neil’s passing in 2001, Lucy moved to an independent living cottage at The Springs of Butte. She eventually transitioned to assisted living and passed away on August 1, 2024.
Lucy is survived by her five children, ten grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and her brother. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, siblings, and in-laws.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at The Springs of Butte, Dr. Shawna Yates, and Honeybee Hospice for their care and support. Donations in Lucy’s memory can be made to Friends of the Butte Archives.
