Daniel Thomas Dunn

Daniel Thomas Dunn, 73, of Denver, North Carolina, passed away peacefully in the late evening on September 20, 2025. Born on October 22, 1951, in North Aurora, Illinois, Dan was the eldest of 5 children of the late Dean and Dolores Dunn. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Debbie.

Dan is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Kathy, and their children: Patrick and his wife Whitney and granddaughter, Murphy, Christopher and his wife Kathryn, Andrew, and Jennifer. He was a loving brother to David, Devin, and Diana, and a proud grandfather, uncle, and friend to many.

After being drafted into the U.S. Army in August of 1972, Dan served honorably in Germany until 1974. Following his service, he completed his degree at the University of Illinois, proudly cheering on his beloved Illini. Dan and Kathy lived in St. Louis and Decatur, Illinois, before settling in Huntersville, North Carolina, and later Denver, North Carolina.

Dan was a man of vision and heart. He co-founded Sunn Enterprises with his business partner, Rodney Short, establishing a successful career in the barge industry. His philanthropic spirit led him to create the Dunn Family Foundation, dedicated to helping grassroots organizations build stronger communities.

An avid outdoorsman, Dan loved hunting and fishing with his buddies and found peace on the water. He and Kathy also shared a passion for travel, exploring the world together and with dear friends.

Visitation will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Denver, North Carolina on Thursday, September 25 from 12:00pm - 1:00pm, followed by mass at 1:00pm. Luncheon will proceed afterwards at Trilogy in Denver, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/PFFTribute/DanielThomasDunn

Dan will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend. His generosity, love for adventure, and unwavering commitment to family and community touched all who knew him.