Robert “Bob” Bunting, president of Bunting Magnetics and the architect of the company’s transformation into a global leader in magnetic solutions, passed away last Tuesday, June 17, at the age of 76, surrounded by his family.
Bunting Magnetics, based in Newton, Kansas, was founded in 1959 by Walter Bunting. His son Bob took over the company for nearly three decades, driving its internationalization and expanding its product offerings. Under his leadership, the company established operations in the United Kingdom, China, Australia, and various locations in North America, without losing its character as a family business.
“My father dedicated his life to this company”, said Robert Bunting Jr., current president and CEO.. “His vision and determination shaped what we are today. Demanding but always motivated by his commitment to people and to the future he wanted to build for everyone”.
In addition to his business career, Bob Bunting was a strong advocate for social commitment. Together with his wife, Barbara, he supported educational, social, and civic initiatives in the region for years, collaborating with organizations such as United Way, the Newton Public Library Foundation, and the local YMCA project. Both were recognized as Philanthropists of the Year for their community contribution.
He also promoted the well-being of Bunting employees, promoting the creation of the Walter F. and June A. Bunting Scholarship Fund, designed to facilitate access to higher education for the children of workers.
