John David Dunagan, 74
John David Dunagan, 74, of Whitefish, passed away on Friday, Sept. 16, 2011. He was surrounded at home by his family who lovingly cared for him.
He was born Aug. 5, 1937, in Whitefish, to his parents, Albert and Evelyn Dunagan.
John graduated from Flathead County High in 1956. He then joined the National Guard for two years. He eventually made his living working at the Columbia Falls Aluminum plant, which is where he retired.
John had many interests, including hunting, fishing, shooting, motorcycles and trikes. He was passionate about guns and used that interest to become an international handgun silhouette champion in 1985, along with being awarded an extensive collection of medals through the years. He was a lifetime member of the NRA and participated in the Whitefish Rifle and Pistol club’s many programs. Later, he also spent time with the local Iguana’s group four-wheeling and enjoying the outdoors.
Master Masons and Eastern Star, along with Shiners, were very important to him and he was very active in these. He was also a member of the Whitefish Presbyterian Church.
John had a history of heart problems and spent many days in the hospital. He and Beth even were married in the ICU in Whitefish in 1987, after a heart attack spoiled their wedding day plans.
“We were blessed with a most precious gift in 1996 when John received his transplanted heart. We will forever be grateful for the gift, which extended his life 15 years.”
Although it was often a struggle, his family was able to share so much more of life with him, camping, travel, dinners, holidays, and a chance for him to enjoy watching his family grow. These times included winters in Apache Junction, Ariz., and the joys of a special little American Eskimo dog named Monty.
He touched the hearts of many in his life with his sense of humor and healthy bouts of orneriness. He will be greatly missed.
He was preceded by his parents, Albert and Evelyn Dunagan; and his sister, Alberta “Boots” Todd.
Loved ones left missing him at home include C. Beth Dunagan, his wife of 24 years; their children, son, Jeffery Dunagan of Spokane, and daughters, Laurie Dunagan of Missoula, and Renee Ladeau of Bozeman; and grandsons, Kade and Kyle Andres. Other family includes nephew, Michael Todd, and his extended family of Seattle, and Terry Kay Todd, of Wieser, Idaho.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24, at the Whitefish Presbyterian Church.
In lieu of flowers, donation can be made in John’s name to the Shiners Children Hospital or the local Humane Society.
Arrangements are entrusted to Austin Funeral Home. You are invited to go to www.austinfh.com to offer condolences and view John’s tribute wall.