Dennis Gordon Dunlap

Renaissance man. Passed away September 27, 2009. He was born in Missoula, Montana on October 17, 1946 to Willis Gordon Dunlap and Irene Lepak Dunlap. His sister Phyllis helped raise him after his father died and his mother ran the family newspaper in Thompson Falls, Montana. Dennis spent most summers with his best friends and cousins Jim and Peter Martin at the home of his aunt Gladys and uncle Earl. Dennis and Karen later purchased that home from the Martin's and it is where he spent his final years, in its warm familiarity.

After earning a Bachelor's Degree in English at the University of Montana he moved to Salt Lake City. There he met and married Karen Nannette Norberg June 2, 1969. He worked in advertising and sales in Salt Lake City and Denver. He returned to the University of Montana and earned a Masters Degree in Geology. After working as a geologist in Wyoming and Washington, he moved to Salt Lake City where he taught Earth Science at Judge Memorial High School. Dennis was a "man of science". He was the person we all turned to for answers to questions about all things of this world as well as outer space and the great beyond. Later, he was an Environmental Safety Engineer at EIMCO, and then an independent consultant. Survivors include Alexander Gordon Dunlap (Shelly), Martin William Dunlap, Adrienne Marie Dunlap and grandson Connor. Dennis had many interests that he was able to share with those close to him. Martin and Adrienne were blessed with his musical ability while Al has always followed his love for all things gourmet. Dennis would treat his family to a culinary masterpiece frequently. An ethnic meal he would prepare was an event not to be missed. Dennis passed away after a long fight with Multiple Sclerosis. His ashes will be buried in Thompson Falls at a later date.

An open house where friends and family can share memories of Dennis will be Wednesday, September 30, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Holbrook Mortuary, 3251 South 2300 East. Online condolences can be sent to the family at: www.holbrookmortuary.com