Dorothy (Sjuts) Bunten

Dorothy Sjuts Bunten, 82, of Rantoul died peacefully at home at 7:06 a.m. Sunday (April 14, 2024).

She was born on Feb. 10, 1942, to Henry and Katie (Onnen) Sjuts. She married James Bunten on July 11, 1980, in Rantoul. He survives.

Dorothy attended St. Joseph High School and went on to attend Mr. Michael's school of cosmetology, receiving her cosmetology license.

Dorothy worked in several hair salons and at one time co-owned her own. In 1975, she obtained her bus-driving certificate. She drove for Gifford Grade School and then in 1977 went on to drive for Chanute Air Force Base until the base was closed. At that time, she drove for RTHS until she retired at 2007.

Dorothy was a member of the Ostfriesian Heritage Society for many years as well as an avid bowler.

She is survived by her sister, Louise Sjuts Brownfield of Thomasboro; sons, Deon (Lisa) Mennenga of Rantoul, Derald (Linda) Mennenga of Gifford and Aaron (Cindy) Tuller of Gifford; stepdaughter, Nanci Moore of Enid, Okla.; eight grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Darlene Sjuts Walker; and a grandson.

A funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the American Lutheran Church, 500 Church St., Rantoul. The Rev. James Lehmann will officiate. Burial will follow in Beckman Cemetery, Thomasboro. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service at the church.

Lux Memorial Chapel, Rantoul, is handling the services. Memorials may be made to the donor's choice.