Obituary of James E. Dunn
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James E. Dunn
Sherrill-James E. Dunn, 87, of Sherrill, NY, passed away on January 5th, 2015, at home in the loving care of his family. He was born on October 6, 1927, to Elmer David Dunn and Ethel Mary (Dawson) Dunn of Sherrill, NY.
He graduated from Sherrill High School in 1945. He attended St. Bonaventure University and Le Moyne College, where he earned a degree in History in the Class of 1953.
Upon college graduation, he enrolled in the U.S. Marine Corps' Officer Candidates School, MCB Quantico, earning his commission as a 2nd Lieutenant. He served during the Korean War, earning promotion to 1st Lieutenant and an Honorable Discharge in 1955.
James married Lois J. Ball of Hornell, NY, on September 26, 1953, at St. Helena's Church in Sherrill, NY. They were happily married for 61 years.
In June 1955, James accepted employment at Oneida Limited in the Management Training Program, where he performed training rotations in various departments, becoming Assistant Superintendent of the Knife Plant in 1964. In 1968, he accepted transfer with his family to a new post in Ireland, where he was an Assistant Manager Director until his return to Sherrill, where he held various jobs, until his retirement in 1990 as a vice president with 35 years of service.
James was an active member of his community where he enjoyed serving in various positions at St. Helena's Church, coaching local youth sports, and membership at the Sherrill American Legion Post.
James was elected to the Sherrill City Commission, where he also served as Mayor.
He was an avid hunter and outdoorsman, and a lifelong fan of Notre Dame's Fighting Irish and the Boston Red Sox.
James is survived by his wife, Lois, and their children Elizabeth Dunn of Denver, CO, Christopher (Pam) Dunn of Sherrill, Matthew (Judy) Dunn of Syracuse, Mary Dunn (Steve Ochenkoski) of Alexandria, VA, and Sarah (James) Dam, of Sherrill, grandchildren Jacob and Jordan Dunn, and James, Nathaniel, and Luke Dam and caregiver and dear friend Rhonda Bravick.
Mr. Dunn's Funeral service will be held on Saturday at 2 p.m. at Gethsemane Episcopal Church, 120 Park Street, with Rev. Beverly Messenger-Harris officiating.
Interment at St. Helena's Cemetery will be in the spring.
Memorials may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY 13413.
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