In Loving Memory of Gerald Franklin Dunn

Gerald Franklin Dunn, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on November 5, 2023, at the age of 82. Born on July 27, 1941, in Springfield, MO, to August Raymond and Ollie Leatta (Cox) Dunn. He grew up surrounded by eight siblings in the Strafford, Missouri area. Gerald touched the lives of many with his warm heart and infectious smile.

Gerald, often known as Frank, lived a life filled with joy and passion. He had a deep love for cars and spent countless hours collecting and restoring model cars. His garage was a sanctuary where he could immerse himself in the world of automobiles. Frank’s skillful hands brought life back to old cars, a testament to his meticulous nature and determination.

When not tinkering with cars, Frank enjoyed engaging in card games with family and friends. His competitive spirit and love for the game shone through as he shuffled the deck and strategized his moves. He also found solace and relaxation in playing Solitaire, a game that provided him with moments of peaceful reflection.

With a career in residential construction spanning several years, Frank’s dedication and craftsmanship left a lasting impact on the homes he worked on. His attention to detail ensured that every project was built with precision and care, leaving behind a legacy of beautifully crafted houses throughout the community.

Frank’s leisure time was often spent engrossed in the pages of books, particularly westerns and mysteries. He found solace in the stories woven within the pages and embraced the adventures they offered. Classic western shows and movies also held a special place in his heart, transporting him to a bygone era filled with cowboys and frontier tales.

Remembered as a devoted family man, Frank’s love and pride for his children – Seth, Kathy, Keely, Marlena, Lucas, Michael, and stepchildren, Jessica, Sonja, Lacey, and Ashley – knew no bounds. He cherished every moment spent with them, creating treasured memories, and instilling in them the values of love, loyalty, and perseverance.

He was welcomed into heaven by his parents, and seven of his siblings, August R. Dunn, Jr., William Dunn, Donald Dunn, Herbert Dunn, Barbara Gilland, Larry Dunn, and Robert Dunn.

Frank is survived by his six children, Kathy and Kevin Officer, Keely Dunn, Seth Dunn, Marlena Dunn, Lucas and Tabitha Pyrley-Dunn, and Michael Dunn; four stepchildren, Jessica Nichols, Sonja Nichols, Lacey Potter, and Ashley Tucker; six grandchildren Tyler and Brennon Officer, Nicholas Officer, Cevin Watson, Keelynn Watson, August Watson, and Eeston Shepard; and his brother, Harvey Dunn.

A public viewing to honor Frank’s life will be held on Friday, November 10, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Greenlawn Funeral Home North, Springfield, MO. Following the viewing, a funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm, where family and friends will gather to celebrate the remarkable journey of Frank Dunn. He will be laid to rest in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens following the funeral service.