Obituary
Guest Book
1954
2014
Michael Tunnell, 60, died peacefully on Friday, December 19, 2014, at the Norton Pavilion in Louisville, KY. From the first moment of his cancer diagnosis in 2011 until the final decision to enter hospice care, Mike approached his fight with this disease with his characteristic smile, gentle nature, and grace. Mike enjoyed being with us right to the very end, and his last days were filled with visits and messages from beloved family, colleagues, and former and current students. Mike taught and loved so many students over his 40-year career, and one of his last joys was in giving grandson Simon his first toy trumpet.
Mike was born in Tucson, AZ and grew up in Powell, TN, near Knoxville. He was a graduate of UT, where he majored in music/trumpet performance. He pursued graduate degrees at the University of Louisville (MM) and University of Southern Mississippi (DMA), and enjoyed a long career of performing and teaching at numerous colleges and universities. Mike joined the faculty of the University of Louisville School of Music in 1988, and was one of the biggest Cards fans on the planet. He was a member of Crescent Hill Baptist Church.
Mike is survived by his wife, Meme Tunnell; daughter, Dr. Morgan Snyder (Eric); son, Robert Tunnell; and grandson, Simon Calvin Snyder, all of Louisville; parents, Hilton and Winona Tunnell, of Powell, TN; sister, Virginia Williams (Steve), of Knoxville, TN; brother, David Tunnell (Cathy), of Palm Bay, FL; mother-in-law, Camille Fuller; brother-in-law, Robert Fuller (Marla), all of Franklin, KY; and 13 nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be on Tuesday, December 23, 2014 at 11 AM in the Sanctuary of Crescent Hill Baptist Church, 2800 Frankfort Ave. Visitation will be on Monday, December 22, 2014 from 3-8 PM at Arch L. Heady-Cralle Funeral Home, 2428 Frankfort Ave.
A Memorial Concert is scheduled for 2:00 PM on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at the University of Louisville School of Music, Comstock Hall, 2301 S. 3rd St.
Memorial gifts may be made to the University of Louisville School of Music Michael Tunnell Scholarship Fund or to the Michael Tunnell Memorial Scholarship Fund at:
www.trumpetguild.org/Legacy or International Trumpet Guild Legacy Fund,
PO Box 2688, Davenport, Iowa 52809-2688(please specify Michael Tunnell Fund).
For those folks coming to the service, and play a horn, please bring your horn, and you're invited at the end of the service to partake in a final tribute for Michel in the church balcony.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
August 4, 2015
Laurie Blumer
Meme,
I was searching the world of music teacher blogs when I came upon a woman giving thanks to a Dr. Michael Tunnell for his kindness as her trumpet professor. I saw the name and followed the link and learned of Mike's passing. I am so sorry for your family's loss. I have warm memories of the two of you as graduate students at southern. I will always remember the lesson you taught me, never have your husband turn pages, it isn't good for your relationship. Laurie "Blumer" kennedy ( currently Rochester NY)
February 8, 2015
Richard Wiederman
I am just finding out about Mike's passing. I am so sad for Meme and his family. I heard from Jake Schorge that he was ill, but I had no idea that he had passed away until Chris Melito (Chris and I studied with Mike at Potsdam back in 1982) told me. Mike Tunnell was a wonderful Trumpet teacher but his humanity is what I'll remember most about him. He was a gentle soul that cared for everyone he came in contact with. He was something special and he certainly made an impression with the Trumpet students at the Crane School of Music. My sincerest condolences to Meme and their children.
May he rest in peace,
Richard Wiederman
Stony Brook, New York
February 6, 2015
Robert Whaley
Meme and Family,
I just learned of Mike's passing from reading the "TAPS" section of the International Musician magazine. My wife Judy and I send our most sincere regrets to you and your family. I taught at New England Music Camp in the late 80's with Mike. My son Phil studied with him at the camp.
Indeed, as noted by the many fine Guest Book entries, Mike was a wonderful teacher and and even better man.
Although I have not seen him in many years, I can visualize the times we spent together that summer and how that kindness and gentleness that he showed others set such a good standard for living life. I also remember the pleasure I had in preparing performances with him during that time.
Best wishes to your and your family.
Bob Whaley
Professor Emeritus of Tuba
Western Michigan University
January 18, 2015
??Cookie and Austin Tiller
Meme I felt it a priveledge to get to know you , Michael and Tommy over the years.muchael was such a warm and talented man and a joy to be with. I send my thoughts and prayers to the whole family. May he rest in peace
January 13, 2015
Eric Lindberg
Dr. Tunnell was my trumpet teacher at ISYM, the summer band camp at University of Illinois, in 1987. His patience and generous nature struck me as special as much as the talent he shared with the campers during evening concerts. The beauty of his sound always stayed with me and always will. I teach high school now and also recognize the true compassionate teacher that he was during those hot summer sessions. Dr. Tunnell's impact on me will always be fondly remembered.
January 3, 2015
Donnie , Kim , Nick and Chris Towles
Sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with Meme and the rest of the family.
January 2, 2015
Davud Jones
Meme, I know you already know that you had just about the best husband and musical partner you could have wished for. And that he was an amazingly decent and spiritual man (not always a hot commodity in the musical world). I just want to add my voice to his praises (and yours since several of his performances and recordings of my music involved your piano skills). His was just about the sweetest sound on trumpet, cornet, flugelhorn and corno di caccia that I have ever heard. So glad Tim Hudson thought to bring me up to New England Music Camp about a quarter century ago to meet yawl. Never be another like him.
Love,
David Jones
Head, Music Dept.
Peninsula College
December 29, 2014
Mike is the prototype of the person all of us aims for. Thank-you for the encouragement and support over the years. My very best to the family. Galindo Rodriguez, Northwestern State University, trumpet
December 25, 2014
Nancy Domagala
Dearest Meme, I am devastated by Mikes passing but know that he "fought the good fight" for as long and as bravely as anyone. My head is filled with the wonderful times we all shared as pals and musicians. Have spent time looking through photo albums...and couldn't help but laugh despite tears. I'm SO thankful that I heard him perform in Champaign not that long ago. My thoughts are with you always.
December 24, 2014
Steven Towles
What other neighbor hood has a orchestra
playing for halloween
December 23, 2014
MeMe
It happens that I was driving to Louisville this morning and called Dave Wagner who told me he couldn't talk because he was on his way to Mike's Funeral. I screamed something and tried to recover the car and spent the rest of my drive listening to Bach cantatas. I am literally speechless!
Chet Alwes
December 23, 2014
Howard Klug
Meme and family:
So sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I have very fond memories of having him as a colleague at the U. of Illinois. He was a wonderful trumpet player and an even better human being.
December 23, 2014
Dr. Tunnell, will be missed deeply, what a terrific trumpet player and a huge inspiration to our son Tyler Robinson. Sincerest condolences from the Robinson Family.
December 23, 2014
Loren Waa
Meme--I'm sorry I won't be able to come to the funeral. I have a terrific cold and would just pass it on to every one I met. Mike was a truly great musician and person. My sincerest condolences to you and your family.
December 22, 2014
Paul Vermel
Meme and kids - we are so very sorry to hear of Mike's passing. We have many fond memories of all our music-makiing together,and hope that our love and affection can give you some peace at this difficult time. He was he best, and I know you had a wonderful life together. Love from us - Paul and Carolyn
December 22, 2014
Meme, Morgan, and Robert David,
Leann and I want to express to you our deepest sympathy in your loss. We will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers.
Leann & Jeff Moody
December 22, 2014
Mary Towles
Sincerest condolences from the Towles family. We are so sorry for your loss! Mike was a wonderful man! We all have great memories from when the kids were so little! Prayers to your family!
December 22, 2014
Sandra Cherry
What a terrific trumpet player! You will be missed, my dear friend. I'm so glad I got to hear you play at Christ Church United Methodist in October. It was a very special performance and not a dry eye in the house.
December 22, 2014
Charles Brestel
Mike was a wonderful person and a terrific musician. We will all miss him.
December 22, 2014
Garrison and Susan Cox
We are so sorry about Mike's death. He has been part of the St. Paul UMC family for many years and holidays. We also had some good times together at Brandeis when the kids were young. Our prayers for strength go out to the entire family.
December 22, 2014
Ralph Dudgeon
Our thoughts are with your family. Mike was a trumpet colleague and I had the pleasure to perform with him at ITG several times. He made a real contribution to our art and will be missed by trumpeters and friends around the world.
Peace,
Ralph Dudgeon
Professor of Music Emeritus, SUNY Cortland
December 22, 2014
Roz Poole
We were so sorry to hear of Mike's illness and passing. He was always so wonderful to Jim, and we owe him so much for seeing Jim through his high school years! Our prayers are with you.
December 22, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that my prayers are with you. Peace
Pat Allen
December 22, 2014
Corbin Mabrey
I was a student of Dr. Tunnell's 17 years ago, and I never had a better teacher in all my time playing, and still pass on the lessons he taught me to my children. A wonderful teacher, an amazing musician, and a truly great man. I am so sad to hear of his passing, and my prayers go out to the family. I am so very sorry for your loss.
December 22, 2014
Melissa Velasco, RN
Such a sweet man! I loved our band conversations at the clinic! Peace that surpasses all understanding I pray for the entire family. Blessings...
December 22, 2014
Jeanie and Clinton Grosz
Prayers for you and your family Meme.
May God wrap his loving arms around you always and know that we are all thinking of you at this time.
December 21, 2014
David Tunnell
Mike was the best brother anyone ever had. Always there for me, my family and every person he ever met. His testimony and legacy is amazing.
December 21, 2014
David Jennings
Lisa and I extend our deepest sympathies and love to Meme and all of Mike's family.
A great friend since high school at Powell, I'll treasure fond memories of Mike as a dedicated musician and scholar, and later his falling for Meme and the wedding in Franklin.
I knew him to be a fine, honest and loving man, and I have been blessed to have shared part of life's journey with him.
December 21, 2014
Lucinda & Mario (Land) Morin
What an inspiration he was! We met Dr. Tunnel at a U of L winter concert. He was an incredible mentor and wonderful friend to our brother Reese. He'll be missed. Praying for you to find peace and strength in the days to come.
December 21, 2014
Pete & Anita Sapnar
Anita & I are so sorry to learn of Mike's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with Meme and the entire Tunnel & Fuller families.
December 21, 2014
Sarah Cable
What an incredible photo album - such great memories of a loving husband and father. All of my love to your family during this difficult time. I am thinking of you.
December 21, 2014
Meme and family. Sending you our condolences in the passing of a wonder person. We enjoyed his friendship. We will never forget all he did for Brian before U of L and after. We will carry his memory in our hearts. God Bless you.
Kenny and Marilynn Glass
Frankfort, Ky
December 21, 2014
We are so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. We always enjoyed when he or one of his students played at church. He will be greatly missed. H.B., Kris, and, A.J. Brady & Gregory Rahming
December 21, 2014
Prayers for all of you from the Mt. Pisgah Young Adult Sunday School class. May God grant you comfort and peace in the coming days. Yours in Christ, David and April Land [brother of Reese].
December 21, 2014
Matt and Kelsey Menegotto
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the tunnell family. Rob we love you very much and wish we could be there with you. Miss you man.
December 21, 2014
Julie Owen
My prayers and sympathy go out to your family during this time. May his memory live on for an eternity
December 21, 2014
Mark Taggart
I am heartbroken. Michael was a decent, compassionate man. His legacy will live on a long time, and his memory will remain in our hearts.
December 21, 2014
Denise Kaufman
As a teacher Mike Tunnell touched thousands of lives. As a man he touched as many hearts. Kind, gentle, patient, loyal, devoted, passionate, and talented are just some of the words that come to mind when I think of Dr. Tunnell. Meme, we are grateful to the both of you for opening your home and your hearts to so many music students over the years. The world is a better place for everything Mike shared with us.
Marshall and Denise Kaufman
December 21, 2014
Adam Gaines
Meme and family, I'm very sorry for your loss. Mike was a great teacher and mentor, and an even better person with a big, warm heart. His life stands as an example to us all on how to be both a professional and a family man. My thoughts are with you... God bless.
December 20, 2014
Rick Eljaiek
The Eljaiek's are deeply saddened by the loss of our family member, Mike Tunnell. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Meme, Morgan,(Eric&Simon), Robert-David,The Fullers (Camille, Robert, Marla, Sarah), in Franklin. He will be sorely missed by many. We all loved him, very much.
December 20, 2014
Stephen Bottom
Mike, you were a treasured teacher, mentor, and friend. We all loved you and are going to miss you very much. Sleep with the angels
December 20, 2014
Craig Hamilton
I am so sorry to learn of Mike's passing. He was a wonderful person that touch so many. We are all better people for knowing Mike. My thoughts are prayers are with Meme and the family. (USM student from the late 70's)
December 20, 2014
Dave Harman
Dear Meme,
I am so very sorry to hear the news. Mike was such a wonderful colleague. It was a always a great pleasure to make music with him and to appreciate his kind heart and joyful spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Dave Harman
December 20, 2014
Pam Holden
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts at this very difficult time.
December 20, 2014
Maureen Womack
Meme & family our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
December 20, 2014
Angie Staub
Meme & family, our hearts are broken upon hearing the news of Mike's passing. He was our son Zach's trumpet teacher for several years. He was such a kind, devoted teacher and Zach cherished his time with Mike. Please know that we will hold you all in our thoughts and prayers. The loss of such a lovely man will surely be felt by many. Angie & Mike Staub
December 20, 2014
Alison Morgan Layne
Meme, I will never forget your husband. He was an amazing professor that I always enjoyed learning and growing from while I was at U of L (1993-1998)! Thank you for sharing him with us crazy trumpet students for so many years.
December 20, 2014
Mary Emery
I have known Mike since he was four years old. I've watched him grow into a fine Christian man. We will always miss him.
December 20, 2014
Nancy Sears
Meme, Shelley called me while ago to give me this sad news. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all the family and friends. I have many fond memories of you all as students at the music school - and later as outstanding musicians.
December 20, 2014
Eugene King
Meme and Family, So very sorry to learn of Mike's passing, but so very fortunate to have known such a fine person, and wonderful musician. I was very glad to have visited with him back in October, and happy to have talked with you the time before. There is really nothing one can say or do to relieve the pain and anguish that y'all are experiencing right now, but rest assured that Mike touched so many people in such a positive way, that his legacy will remain for a good long while. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless, keep, and confort you. Eugene C. King.
December 20, 2014
Sharon Lebsack
Meme, Morgan and Robert, My heart aches at this news. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Mike was such a sweet person who will be missed by all who knew him. Love, Sharon
December 20, 2014
Carol Stewart
Meme, I am so, so sorry - I know this is an unspeakable loss. You and your family will be held warmly in my thoughts. Much love to you during this dark time.
December 20, 2014
Dick and Linda Moeller
We were privileged to meet and host Michael and hear him perform during his visits to Waverly with the Kentucky Baroque Trumpets. We extend our sympathies and pray that you will be comforted by the legacy his talent and his caring heart have left in the lives of so many students, colleagues and friends
December 20, 2014
Judy Wilson
Meme, you and your family are in my heart and prayers. I'll always remember Mike as a lovely gentleman and a superb musician. Please accept my most heartfelt condolences.
December 20, 2014
Alicia Manning
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Dr. Tunnell was a wonderful trumpet player, and such a kind human being. I am so sad to hear of his passing. May God fill you with peace and comfort during this season.
December 20, 2014
Mike grew up next door to us on Verton Drive in Powell. I remember a fine young man who loved his trumpet. We are so very sorry for your loss and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Neil and Sue Brooks
Dandridge, Tennessee
December 20, 2014
MB McCandless
Praying for your family.
December 20, 2014
Naomi Oliphant
In memory and tribute to a wonderful colleague, friend, and superb human being. Our world has been shattered with his loss, but we will never forget him.
December 20, 2014
Jamie & Webb Strang
Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
December 20, 2014
Peter Wood
Deepest sympathies to the whole Tunnell family. Mike will be greatly missed by all. The world is a better place for having had him in it.
December 19, 2014
Wilda Cornett
You are in our thoughts and prayers as you have been for a long while. May God comfort you. Ken and Wilda Cornett
December 19, 2014
Meme and Family,
Allan called to tell me that Mike passed away this morning. I'm so sorry. He was a great trumpet player and even a better human being. When our paths crossed he was always a joy to be with. The world sure feels a less vibrant place this evening. His memory will help me strive to be a better person - the kind of person he was.
Love,
Scott MacMorran
December 19, 2014
Randy Jones
My prayers are with you. I am so sorry. I did not know Mike had been battling Cancer for so long as I moved from Louisville several years ago. He was a wonderful man and a great musician. The world is a better place because he has passed this way.
December 19, 2014
Sally Seyal
I am so sorry to hear this. Dr. Tunnell was a fantastic individual- as a musician, mentor and human being. He gave so much joy to so many, including my family. I will pray for him and his family.
December 19, 2014
Jan Baldock Lincoln
Sympathy and prayers to all.
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