Ann Justine Dunkle

Ann Justine Furlong Dunkle, age 77, passed away on February 5, 2026, after quietly waging a courageous fight against Glioblastoma.

Ann was an identical twin born to Eileen and Fredrick Furlong on December 9, 1948, in Delavan, Wisconsin. She grew up in Delaware, Ohio, naturally curious, a lifelong learner, with strong spiritual beliefs, she held an unmatched penchant for books and was deeply committed to family, kids and social justice. Ann was a friend to all she met.

In 1970, Ann earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Social Studies Education. In 1972, she earned a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Education. Both degrees were earned at The Ohio State University.

On March 17, 1973, Ann married Dr. Todd Dunkle, and together they had four children: Erin (Zach), Stevens, Timothy Dunkle, Jeffrey (Elizabeth) Dunkle, and Bradley Dunkle. Family, particularly her kids, were the heart of Ann's life. Still, Ann found time to bake her legendary chocolate chip cookies, garden, work, volunteer, bicycle and play an occasional game of golf.

In 2001, Ann earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD.) from the College of Health & Human Services at the University of Toledo, joining the elite 1.5% of PhD. holders of that era.

Ann worked as a school psychologist in Maumee, Ohio, and later in Greeley, Colorado public schools, where she touched the lives of countless students and families by believing in their worth and potential.

In later years, affectionately known as "Grammie," Ann openly doted on fourteen grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Ann is also survived by six siblings: her identical twin sister, Alison (Kent) Pfeister; Kim Evans; Fred (Tami) Furlong; Tom (Kathleen) Furlong; Jon (Darnas) Furlong; and Kim (David) Swisher. Ann was preceded in death by her parents.

In lieu of flowers, Ann requested that donations be made to "Inheritance of Hope" or "Dream Foundation."

A viewing will be held on Friday, February 13, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home in Sylvania, Ohio. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, February 14, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph's Church, Sylvania, with a luncheon to follow. The service will be live streamed at www.stjoesylvania.org. Walker Funeral Home in Sylvania, Ohio is handling the arrangements.