Gary Alan Dunn

Gary Alan Dunn, a devoted husband, father, and friend, passed away in the evening hours of August 24, 2025, around 10 p.m., with his beloved wife holding his hand. He had just celebrated his 68th birthday.

Born on August 17, 1957, Gary lived a life defined by kindness, creativity, humor, and faith. A man of deep belief in Jesus Christ, his life reflected a spirit of love, compassion, and trust in God. His faith was his foundation, guiding him in the way he cared for his family and others.

Music was woven into Gary's soul. He had a beautiful singing voice and was also passionate about playing the drums and piano, often filling his home with melody and rhythm. To his family, those moments of song and laughter are cherished memories that will echo forever.

He shared a beautiful marriage of 49 years with his wife, Denise Cecilia Dunn, whose partnership and companionship were the foundation of his life. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and warmth.

Gary was a proud and loving father to his four sons, Nikolaus, Timothy, Alexander, and Christopher. He delighted in their successes, guided them with humor and patience, and never missed a chance to lighten the mood with a silly remark or goofy gesture. His boys will forever remember not just the lessons he taught, but the joy and laughter he brought into their lives.

Known for his generosity, sincerity, and playfulness, Gary touched countless lives. He had the rare ability to make people feel welcome, valued, and often to leave them smiling. He also loved his many dogs, who returned his affection tenfold; family and friends often joked about how they would pile on top of him in his recliner, creating moments of laughter, warmth, and pure joy.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Denise Cecilia Dunn; his sons, Nikolaus (wife Karly Branch), Timothy (wife Jill Dunn), Alexander, and Christopher (wife Vicky Dunn); his brother, Tom Dunn; his sister, Sandi Lucas; and nine cherished grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents, Doris Dunn and Efford Ray Dunn.

He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, music, laughter, and the warmth of furry friends that will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held on September 5th at 10:30 am at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 532 Ave M NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881, followed by a light reception. Following the mass, there will be an inurnment at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 1991 Overlook Drive, Winter Haven, FL 33884 at 1:00 pm.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to K9s For Warriors (www.k9sforwarriors.org), a non-profit organization that combines Gary's love for dogs with his support for the men and women of our military and his own service to the Navy.

Gary will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His life, his music, his laughter, his love for his dogs, and his 49-year marriage to Denise stand as a testament to a life filled with love, joy, and devotion. Through all he gave and shared, he kept the faith and now rests in the peace of the Lord.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7