Kenneth Dunlap

Kenneth Duane Dunlap, age 98, of Grand Haven and former longtime resident of Jackson, Michigan, passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Duane was born on January 29, 1927 in Jackson, Michigan to Glen A. and Mary (Jensen) Dunlap. Duane married Marie Anna (Puffpaff), his beloved wife of 73 years, on October 11, 1952 at Nevins lake Church, in Stanton, Michigan. Afterwards, the two moved into the home that Duane built in Jackson where they lived together until 2019.
Duane was a proud WWII veteran. He bravely served his country on the Navy ship, USS Chowanoc, a vital fleet ocean tug used for salvage, towing and logistical support during invasions in the Pacific. In 2015, as a thank you for his wartime service, he had the privilege of participating in an Honor Flight and VIP tour of the memorial sites in Washington D.C., escorted by his daughter.
Duane's work after the Navy was as a Tool and Die repairman until his retirement at the age of 52. Being inventive and self-taught, he had several hobbies and his early retirement allowed him many years to enjoy them. He was passionate about antique cars and his perfectionistic attitude resulted in the restoration of several antique cars from junk to mint condition, including his first, a 1924 Model T, affectionately called "Nelliebelle". Over the years, Duane and his wife traveled the US, from "coast to coast", with their restored cars as members of the National Model A Ford Club of America (MAFCA) and MARC Sparton Horn Region of Michigan. They also enjoyed showing them at the Old Car Festival held annually at Greenfield Village in Dearborn, MI. He especially enjoyed the times he drove his Model T around hilly Catalina Island and later around the racetrack at Michigan International Speedway.
Duane was also a talented woodworker and he used his skill to restore antique furniture, which included many chairs, where he also masterfully weaved cane for the seats. He and Marie built a cabin in the woods near the Au Sable River in Mio, Michigan where they liked to spend time relaxing with friends and family. Duane and Marie also enjoyed international travel, playing bridge, and gardening. For over thirty years, they split their time between Michigan and Florida, where they made new friends and enjoyed snow-free winters together. When in Michigan, they were active participants and members of Sandstone Congregational Church. He was financially savvy and followed the stock market, dabbling in investing and stock trading. Duane was a man of integrity, a helpful friend and loving companion. He would chat with anyone and had kind words to say about everyone.
Duane leaves us with many wonderful memories. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Marie Dunlap; daughter, Jeanne Stoddard, and her partner Tim Lovrencevic; two grandchildren, Cara Stoddard, and Ryan (Kristin) Stoddard; two great-grandchildren, Skya Stoddard and Stellan Stoddard; his sister, Elizabeth "Betty" Dunlap; and several dear nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law, Rick Stoddard; and his brother, Gerald "Jerry" Dunlap.
An outdoor, military service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 27th at Fort Custer National Cemetery, 15501 West Dickman Road, Augusta, MI 49012. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sandstone Congregational Church (Jackson, MI). Arrangements entrusted to Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Please share your memories with the family by signing the online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.