Lamar E. Dunkle

Posted on November 15, 2024

Lamar E. Dunkle was born July 29, 1944, to Roy and Helen Dunkle, and raised in the small rural farming community of Valley View, Pa. He died Nov. 12, 2024. He is survived by: his devoted wife of 57 years, Theresa; son, David; daughter-in-law, Cindy; grandsons, Alex and Austin; his granddaughter-in-law, Caitlynn; and his sisters, Brenda and Renee. He was preceded in death by his parents and older brother, Jack. He and Theresa moved to Perry in 1989 and have called it home since. They’ve made many friends here and always enjoyed spending time with them. The family is grateful to the friends who have gone above and beyond during this transition. There are no words to express the thanks for the support and care. Lamar served and retired from the United States Air Force from 1969 through 1989. He served three deployments to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam conflict, including various stations. stateside duty Lamar earned numerous ribbons and medals, including: the Vietnam Service Medal with five devices, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with two devices, Small Arms and Expert Rifle and Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon with four devices, among numerous Outstanding Unit accommodations and accomplishments. He retired at the rank of First Sergeant and was proud of his service. Lamar, once an avid outdoors man who loved to hunt and fish, replaced his passion for the outdoors with a strong passion for his Savior Jesus Christ. He enjoyed meeting with fellow believers, whether it was Wednesday night Bible studies, Sunday services or various conferences he and Theresa attended. He and his wife spent a full life together traveling and seeing sights together. As they moved to a new duty station, they made sure to visit the national parks and attractions along the way. They enjoyed traveling and became cruise enthusiasts, taking voyages through the Caribbean, Central and South America, trans-Atlantic cruises to Europe, through the Panama Canal and even Australia and New Zealand. He will be interred at the National Cemetery in Tallahassee in a small, private family ceremony of remembrance.