John A Dunkelberger Jr

John A. Dunkelberger, Jr, 90, of Centre Hall, peacefully entered into his eternal rest on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Born on January 22, 1935, in Wrightsville, PA, he was the son of the late Dr. John A. Sr and Thelma (Baer) Dunkelberger. He married Shirley M. Schaefer, who preceded him in death in December, 2023.
John graduated in 1952 from William Penn Senior High in York, Pa. He attended Penn State University, earning degrees in Microbiology and Biochemistry in 1956. He worked primarily in chemistry of metals, including printed circuits and precious metals recovery. John held two U.S. patents in pollution control and was an instructor in environmental science for Penn State University. He joined his son in 1981 forming Dunkelberger Lumber which was active for 18 years. John and his family were charter members and very active members of the Central Pennsylvania Orchid Society. He has been an accredited orchid judge of the American Orchid Society since 1972. He later earned his Judge Emeritus in 2019. Additionally, two of his granddaughters are following in his footsteps to become accredited judges with the AOS. John was awarded numerous awards for breeding and hybridization of orchids. He also used his chemical expertise to produce quantities of wine from his own grapes and various other fruits which were well received by his family and friends. Family members also enjoyed the fruits and vegetables of his gardening. John served on Potter Township Planning Commission and was an avid hunter and marksman.
John is survived by his daughter, Judy (Martin) Melville of Centre Hall; sons, John "Jay" (Colleen) Dunkelberger III of Spring Mills and James Dunkelberger of Lancaster; grandchildren, Laura (Dave) Carver, Christopher (Donelle) Melville, Elizabeth (Drew) Pirrone-Brusse, and Helen (Jeff Wilkins) Melville, Heidi (Paul) Weaver, Margaret (Alex Manikas) Dunkelberger, Martha (Tim Breon) Dunkelberger, and John Dunkelberger IV; and five great grandchildren.
A celebration of life service will be held for John at a later date and will be announced.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to CPOS (an orchid society), c/o Elizabeth Pirrone-Brusse, 477 Nimitz Ave, State College, PA 16801.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Barbara Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc of Centre Hall. To share memories and condolences online, please visit daughenbaughs.com.