Samuel J Dunkle

Samuel James Dunkle, age 87, of Duncansville, passed away to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. Born August 27, 1937 in Altoona, he was the eldest son of the late J. Frank and Vera Jane (Shrenkengast) Dunkle. He married Wanda Lee Filler on June 26, 1959 in Altoona.

Surviving is his loving wife of 65 years, Wanda; son, Samuel Mitchell Dunkle (Cindy) of Hollidaysburg; grandson, Specialist Four Joshua Dunkle, US Army, Fort Liberty, North Carolina; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Daniel.

Sam graduated Hollidaysburg High School in 1955 and Pennsylvania State University in 1959.  Upon graduation, he began teaching immediately at Hollidaysburg Area High School in the subjects of Earth Space Science, Math and Shop Math, and later became the Assistant Principal, positively impacting many young adults. Sam retired from the school district in 1994. He served 40 years as a Pennsylvania Game Protector, and 8 years on the Pennsylvania Game Commission (1996-2004), serving the last two years as the President. Throughout his career, he worked simultaneously as school bus driver, sporting events, construction, paving, tree trimming, and other odd jobs to provide for his family and Church.  Upon his father’s death, Sam assumed his remaining term as Allegheny Township Supervisor. He was one of the original founders of the Blair County Conservation Organization and was a member of the Hollidaysburg Lodge #220, Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. He was recognized as a jack of all trades and master of many. 

Throughout his life, Sam was passionate about the Lord’s beautiful creation, enjoying wildlife and the great outdoors, hunting, and gardening. He was one of the hardest workers anyone would ever know; he never slowed down. He was loved, revered, feared, and respected by many. Sam was never a stranger to good food. He loved dining with his friend group every Friday night and Sunday after Church.

Friends will be received Monday, November 11, 2024 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm at Hicks Church, 1211 3rd Ave., Duncansville, and Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 10 until the 11am funeral service with the Rev. Rich Morris officiating and Pastor Roy Steward assisting. Interment will be at Carson Valley Cemetery, Duncansville.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Samaritan’s Purse to aid the recent flood victims. (Samaritan's Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607).

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