NEWTON, KAN. — Robert (Bob) Bunting, chairman and owner of Bunting Magnetics, died June 17 at age 76.

Bunting led the family-owned business — founded by his father in 1959 — for nearly three decades, transforming the company into a global supplier and manufacturer of magnetic solutions. During his tenure as president and chief executive officer, Bunting Magnetics established operations in the United Kingdom, China and Australia, and added facilities across North America.

“My father dedicated his life to this company,” said Robert Bunting Jr., son and current president and CEO of Bunting Magnetics. “He was a tireless worker whose vision and determination shaped Bunting into the company it is today. He held high standards and pushed us to be our best, but those who knew him understood it came from a place of deep care — for the people who worked here and the future he was building for all of us.”

Aside from leading the company, Bunting was deeply committed to community service, supporting charities, educational and civic initiatives across Newton, Kan., and the surrounding region. These included United Way, the Newton Public Library Foundation and the regional YMCA projects.

For their generosity, Bunting and his wife Barbara were awarded Philanthropists of Year by the Newton Public Library Foundation and recognized by the Central Kansas Community Foundation.

Bunting was also a strong believer in supporting his company’s employees and their families. Under his leadership the company established the Walter F. and June A. Bunting Memorial Scholarship Fund, helping employee children pursue higher education.

“Bob Bunting’s legacy continues through the company he helped shape, the community he championed, and the people whose lives he touched along the way,” said Bunting Magnetics in a statement. “His vision, generosity and belief in hard work will continue to guide Bunting for generations to come. As we move forward, we do so with deep gratitude — for his leadership, his example, and the enduring values he instilled in all of us.”

Stay up to date on the latest pet food processing industry headlines on our News page.