Gerald "Jerry" Dunlap

Jerry Dunlap passed away peacefully in the morning hours of March 11, 2017. He was born on August 28, 1935, the youngest child of Robert and Margaret Dunlap. He was married to Dee Dunlap for 52 years, and they lived their lives comfortably as Des Moines southsiders. He was of the generation who worked hard and lived modestly. He attended St. Ambrose grade school and graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 1955. Jerry was a firefighter for over 30 years with the Des Moines Fire Department.

Jerry was a generous, hardworking, devout Catholic. He worked two jobs most of his life and spoiled his wife, kids, family and friends. He would be the first to give you the last dollar in his wallet or beer in his fridge. He enjoyed many projects around the house. He built numerous shelves and retaining walls and planted hundreds of tomatoes and other vegetables. He loved the outdoors. He would often be outside cutting down firewood or pulling weeds. He also loved his sports. It wouldn't be uncommon to find him in front of a television set watching a football or a college basketball game. He passed on his strong faith to his family and friends. He attended daily mass and brought communion to the sick. He served mass for many years at St. Ambrose where he was a member all of his life.

He is survived by his wife Dee, daughters, Denise, Sarah, Jodie (Paul) and his son Jeffrey (Mary): along with his many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Jerry’s family would like to thank all their family and friends who supported them in the past year. It was a difficult year but an honor to serve.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. with a Rosary and Wake Service prayed at 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 15, 2017 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 16th at St. Ambrose Cathedral, 607 High Street. Jerry will be laid to rest with military honors at 12:30 p.m. Thursday at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Catholic Charities.

Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

Print