State Rep. Tony Cook (R-Cicero) on Thursday at the Statehouse presented the Sagamore of the Wabash award to Hamilton County resident and artisan John Bundy.
Cook said Bundy is known for his work in crafting wooden duck decoys, which can be found across the world. During former Gov. Robert D. Orr’s Administration, Bundy was often commissioned to develop the decoys, which were frequently given to Asian officials on the governor’s international trade mission trips.
“The duck is a sign of goodwill, prosperity and good luck in Asian culture,” Cook said. “It is amazing to think a local artisan’s impact stretches far beyond the Hoosier state and America’s borders.”
According to Cook, Bundy’s work is still used today as he helped develop a wooden buffalo for Gov. Eric Holcomb.
Bundy is also known for his environmental conservationism for the White River. He, along with other business owners in Noblesville, set up an organization called White River Rescue 2000, following a chemical discharge that killed more than four million fish. Together, the group raised thousands of dollars to help speed up the recovery process of the river.
“John has clearly proven himself as a selfless public servant,” Cook said. “Whether it is taking swift action to restore the health of Central Indiana’s waterways or using personal talents to help put Indiana on a global stage, I cannot think of anyone more deserving of Indiana’s top award.”
Dating back to the 1940s, the Sagamore of the Wabash award was created by former Gov. Ralph Gates. It is the highest honor the governor can bestow, and is only presented to distinguished Hoosiers who have made significant contributions to the state of Indiana.
Bundy currently resides in the Noblesville area with his wife, Valerie.