James R. "Rex" Punchard

James R. “Rex” Punchard, formerly of Hyannis, died Friday, December 29, 2023 following a period of declining health. He was 87.

Rex was born in Newark, New Jersey on February 13, 1936, a son of the late Rector and Vivian (Haight) Punchard. Following high school he joined the United States Navy and honorably served aboard the USS Orion during the Korean War. He completed his college education upon his return home and had a successful career at Raytheon where he retired as an executive in the marketing department. 

He loved to read, had a special love for his canine companions, and always found peaceful enjoyment listening to Dixieland jazz music, especially the work of Dave Brubeck. He also enjoyed sports and closely followed the Florida Gators. In addition he found great joy working outdoors and writing. He will always be remembered as having an enormous heart and wonderful sense of humor. His comfortable and easy going nature allowed him to make friends everywhere he went.

In addition to his beloved wife, Karen (Swift) Punchard, he leaves his children, Darrin Punchard (Jessica) of Winchester, and Paige Dalto (Chris) of Stow, his grandchildren, Alyssa and Matthew Dalto, and Kathryn and Samantha Punchard, his sister Natalie Margiotta of Washington D.C., and several nieces, nephews, and their families. 

Rex was also the brother of the late William Kist, Audrey Wragge, and Jacqueline Smith.

Family and friends will honor and remember Rex’s life by gathering for a committal service in Massachusetts National Cemetery, Connery Avenue, Bourne, on Monday, January 8^th at 11:30 a.m. 

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to https://www.dementiasociety.org/donate