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MICHAEL DUNBAR Obituary

Michael Dunbar Mike gained recognition across the country as a renowned collegiate football coach. Mike's life, however, could best be described as a devoted husband and father, faithful friend and inspirational teacher and mentor. Mike passed away September 13th, 2013, at age 64 at his home in DuPont with his wife of 40 years, Linda, at his side. He grew up in Lakewood and graduated from Lakes High School in 1967. He received his BA in Education from the University of Washington and MA from Pacific Lutheran University. Mike taught in Clover Park schools for 8 years. In 1980, the family moved to Ellensburg to follow his dream to coach college football at CWU. During his 39 year coaching career, Mike was head coach or offensive coordinator at ten major universities. He was a member of the National Football Coaches Association, Washington Athletic Assoc-iation and inducted into the CWU Hall of Fame. Football was his profession, but family was Mike's life. He dearly loved and is survived by wife Linda, son Troy (Heather), daughter Lori Grantham (Chris), grandsons Ty and Bryce, parents Wayne and Barbara, sisters Patricia Wheaton (Terry), Nancee Alvord (Darrell), brother Jim and numerous nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Mike's Life will be held at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club on Sunday, September 29th at 2:00pm. At his request, a memorial fund in his name has been established for student athletes at CWU. Donations may be made to Mike Dunbar Memorial Fund and sent to Central Washington University Foundation, 400 E University Way, Mail Stop 7507, Ellensburg, WA 98926. Please sign guestbook at www.PiperMorleyMellingerfh.com

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Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on Sep. 22, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
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Mike & Joanne Canova

October 8, 2013

Dear Linda, Troy & Lori,
We were so sad to learn of your husband and father's departure from this life. We pray that the peace of Jesus Christ will be with you in your grief. Sending our love,

September 29, 2013

Hello Linda! It was so sad to read about Mike's passing! I loved catching up on you and your family through the published stories! It sounds like he truly lived his dream!! I know you supported him throughout! You were a true blessing to him. I wish you and your family many loving memories!

Terry Spitzer-staton

September 26, 2013

Great man...a honor to have known him.

Yvonne Pier

September 25, 2013

Sorry for your loss. My son Devante played for Coach Dunbar and loved him. Thanks to your family for sharing him with so many.

Karen Reed

September 23, 2013

Dear Dunbar family, we are so sorry for your loss, God bless you all! and know that you are in our prayers. Love you all, Mike and Karen Reed

Janaan Mickey

September 23, 2013

Linda - There are no words that can ease the sorrow that you and the family bear at this time. You and Mike have both personified 'grace'. It was my privilege to have known Mike, though for a short time. Peace to you.
Janaan Mickey - NIU Athletics

Randy Taylor

September 22, 2013

Coach was a true gentleman; one who definitely set an example for many of how to be a winner off the field, as well as one. His humility and quiet sense of humor were a gift to all. God bless Coach Dunbar & our prayers are with Linda and his children at this difficult time. Randy & Kristine Taylor

Annette Stockwell

September 22, 2013

Dear Linda, Barb&Wayne,Pat,Jim&Nancee&all your families;Larry & I share in your loss. We will always look up to Mike as an inspiration to colliate athletes and coaches and are proud to help support his memorial fund at Central. We don't have to be blood relatives to be family, and you all are family to us. Our prayers are with each of you. God Bless.

Bonnie Petersen

September 22, 2013

I worked with many coaches throughout my 30 year career in the CWU Athletic Department and Mike was one of my most favorite.

Stew & Sandy-Althuser Williamson

September 22, 2013

I played football with Mike @ Lakes HS in "65". He was a terrific guy & great ball player. My condolences to his family.

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