Friday, March 29, 2024
37.0°F

No headline

| June 29, 2018 1:00 AM

Ken ‘Skip’ Dunlap, 69

Ken “Skip” Dunlap of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, passed away unexpectedly on June 21, 2018, four days following Father’s Day. He was in the care of his wife, Flo “Cookie” Dunlap (Jonopulos) and daughter, Sophia Kathryn, at Kootenai Health. Ken was born Sept. 13, 1948, in Fairfield, Ala., to Ina Ayers and Ken Dunlap Sr., a World War II Veteran.

Ken spent his childhood in Alabama, Virginia, and moved to Southern California with his parents and two brothers during high school. Ken began serving in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War at age 17. Family and friends delighted in hearing his stories about the war, his travels and the incredible friendships he made aboard the U.S.S. Damato and U.S.S. Waldron.

Upon discharge in September 1969, Ken traveled from Virginia to Southern California. His first two children occupied his young adulthood, where Ken exposed them to fishing, hiking and exploring the beauty of Southern California. After his children had grown, Ken moved to Northern California where he met, and shortly after, married Flo at their home on Valentine’s Day 1992. They spent their weekends camping, fishing and exploring national parks.

Ken, Flo, and Sophia moved to Coeur d’Alene in June 2001, and continued to live in the same home for 17 years. Ken said Coeur d’Alene was the most beautiful place he’s ever lived. He was always impressed with North Idaho’s breathtaking scenery and found peace in being outside. Ken’s desire to spend time outdoors in the fresh Idaho air — no activity necessary, just being surrounded by his home — gave him the greatest joy outside of being with his family.

Ken always had the anticipation of retiring, but found no other contentment in life than his work. He began working as a skilled plumber in the 1970s and made it his coveted career. Ken knew the value of discipline and hard work, a skill he inherited from his father.

Ken was never without a book in his hand; reading was his education and way to unwind from a long day of work. He would discuss facts from his readings for hours with family and friends, and shared life stories up until his last days.

Ken is survived by his wife, Flo, and daughter, Sophia of Coeur d’Alene; his son, Leif, daughter-in-law, Michele and three grandsons, Dylon, Matthew and Jacob of Red Wing, Minn.; daughter, Roxanne of Prescott, Ariz; three granddaughters, Nina, Tailor and Alora; and grandson, Christian.

A small memorial service will be held in September near the family’s home in Coeur d’Alene.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Skip’s online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.