VOORHEESVILLE — Daniel Thomas Vunk, a gifted artist who loved sports, music, and dogs, died suddenly on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025 at home with family.

A 1985 graduate of Clayton A. Bouton High School in Voorheesville, he went on to earn an associate’s degree in fine arts specializing in graphic design at the Junior College of Albany.

“Daniel grew up in Voorheesville and resided in the Saratoga area for many years where he had a successful career in the graphic arts/publishing/marketing community,” his family wrote in a tribute. “His professional roles included art director, lead designer, and production manager in generating, and publishing weekly, monthly, or quarterly newspapers or magazines.

“Later, he expanded his design experience as technical illustrator for many projects. Dan’s design talents brought a special touch to customers’ logos, branding, brochures, banners, and publications demonstrating his established creativity. More recently he also enjoyed managing his landscaping/design business, along with independent work as a freelance graphic designer. 

“Dan was a gifted artist, whose drawings encompassed a wide variety of subjects, creating memorable pieces for him and others to enjoy.   

“Dan was an avid sports enthusiast with a special passion for basketball, which began at a very young age as soon as he could dribble the ball. He was a huge fan of the Boston Celtics, supporting them from the days of Larry Bird, right up through last year’s championship win! He also loved the Red Sox, and the New England Patriots.

“His other passions included enjoying music of many genres, and being a diehard movie enthusiast. He was a dog lover, and received much comfort from his beloved Chihuahua companions, Rosie and Charlie.  

“In more recent years, he returned to the family home in Voorheesville where he took pleasure as a daily companion of his beloved mother, Marlene, and became quite adept at learning more about cooking and creating meals for family.”

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Daniel Thomas Vunk is survived by his mother, Marlene Vunk; his children, Madison and Jackson; his sisters, Jacquelyn (Daniel) Morin, Carol (Lou) Alpy, and Christine (Paul) Parker; his nephew, Austin Parker; and his niece, Sarrah Parker.

His father, Thomas J. Vunk, died before him.

A Celebration of Life gathering for family and friends will be held Saturday, March 1, at 11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church at 68 Maple Ave. in Voorheesville.

Memorial contributions may be made to the New Scotland Community Food Pantry either in monetary form sent to Post Office Box 335, Voorheesville, NY 12186, or non-perishable food donations may be made in baskets at the Voorheesville First United Methodist Church or St. Matthew’s Church.