Robert (Bunk) Ayers, 81, passed away at his Pine Creek home on June 23, 2026. Bunk was born June 17, 1945 to Bob and Bertha Ayers in Omak, Washington. He loved Pine Creek, where he was raised on the family ranch, along with his three younger brothers. And where he raised his family as well. As a young man he worked on nearby ranches, gathering cows and starting colts. He met his wife of 59 years while working for a local rancher. Bunk married Barbara Clarkson June 16, 1967. Together they started their own family on Pine Creek, raising kids, cattle and horses.

Many knew Bunk as a road grader operator for Crown Zellerbach, and it was said he was one of the best. Others knew him as an excellent log truck driver, and lowboy operator. Bunk bought his first logging truck in the 70's, and it still has a special place at the ranch. He loved logging and made many lifelong friends during those years. Later in life, Bunk focused on ranch life with Barb. Nice black cattle and pretty horses can be seen in the meadows below the house to this day. Together, they took their grandkids under their wings and taught them life on the ranch and farm.

We will all miss his quiet guidance and wisdom, his quick wit and his funny sayings.

Bunk is survived by his wife, Barb, children: Bobbi Ayers and Jason (Jill) Ayers, brothers: Wayne (Lori) Ayers, Steve Ayers, and John (Marcy) Ayers, sisters-in-law: Terri (Rod) Armbruster and Lisa Clarkson, grandchildren: Dylan (Kathryn) Fewkes, Rylee (Dylan)Otis, Kody (Rachel) Ayers, Taylor (Lucas) Diving, Walker Ayers, Karlee Ayers and Maycee Ayers, great-grandchildren: Cutler and Cylas Fewkes, Slater Fewkes, Asher and Lincoln Otis, Riverleigh Ayers, Davi and Dase Divino. He was preceded in death by newborn daughter Michael Ann, parents, in-laws: Ken and Betty Clarkson and brother-in-Law Jim Clarkson.

A remembrance will be held Sunday July 19th at 1:30pm at the home of Jason and Jill Ayers. 455 Pine Creek Road, Tonasket.