PAWNEE — Walter Robert Funsch, 67, of Pawnee, Illinois, died Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021, at his home. Walter was born Sept. 10, 1953, in Springfield, the son of Orville W. and Janice C. Waters Funsch. He married Debra J. Aymer Oct. 18, 1975, at the Pawnee United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents. Walter graduated from Springfield High School in 1971. He was a member of the Pawnee United Methodist Church and United Methodist Men. Walter was a clerk for the U.S. Postal Service for 36 years, retiring in 2009. He was a member of the Pawnee Fire Department for 23 years, serving as chief for 13 years. He also was an EMT with the department's ambulance service. He was a former member of the Pawnee Jaycees and the Pawnee Lions Club. Walter loved racing, including NASCAR, dirt-track and drag racing. He is survived by his wife, Debra, of Pawnee; one son, Scott M. Funsch, of Pawnee; two daughters, Angela L. Hermes of New Berlin and Robin A. (companion, Nathan) Jenkins of Assumption; nine grandchildren, Blake, Brayden, Haylee, Jayden, Laykin, Logan, Paytin, Sam and Zain; two brothers, Tom (wife, Paula) Funsch and Jim (wife, Chellie) Funsch, both of Springfield; one sister, Janet Eagan, of Springfield; several nephews, nieces and cousins; and all the daycare children and families who were cared for by the Funsch family over the years. Walter's family will meet friends and family at a celebration of life gathering from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021, at the Pawnee Fire Department, 711 Eighth St. in Pawnee. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pawnee Fire Department and EMS, 711 Eighth St., Pawnee, IL 62558 or the Pawnee Food Pantry, P.O. Box 304, Pawnee, IL 62558-0304. Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is serving the family of Walter Funsch. Online condolences may be expressed at www.curryfh.com.