CNBNews

William E. Cleary Sr. |CNBNews

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (JULY 28, 2024)(CNBNews)--John Dunkirk, of Washington Township, passed away suddenly from a massive heart attack on June 25, 2024. At the time, Mr. Dunkirk was nearing the end of his radiation treatments for prostate cancer. Affectionately known as “Johnny Boy,” he was a former resident of Glassboro and Gloucester City. His brother, Michael Dunkirk, was a Gloucester City Council member in the 1980s.

John, who loomed over six feet tall, possessed a fantastic sense of humor. He relished hearty laughter and took delight in spreading joy, unhesitatingly donning the costume of one of Santa’s elves during Christmastime.

Former state Senator Dan Dalton unequivocally recounted his enduring friendship with John Dunkirk, emphasizing John's profound impact on his family. He lauded John's exceptional golfing skills and the invaluable lessons he imparted, reminiscing about their regular golf outings. He said John taught him how to play the game. 

Despite being diagnosed with foot neuropathy, John's passion for golf led him to establish a program to teach the sport to children, earning well-deserved recognition from Gloucester County. Additionally, "Johnny Boy" dutifully served in Glassboro's maintenance department before retiring. Furthermore, when Dan's father needed transportation, John generously took on the role of chauffeur, highlighting his unwavering support. It is noteworthy to mention that William Dalton, Dan's father, held esteemed positions as the former mayor of Glassboro and the Freeholder director of the Gloucester County Freeholder Board.

John was a good friend of Frank DeFelice; they grew up together in Gloucester City. For a time, they shared a house on South Brown Street.  “He had lost his vision in his left eye,” said DeFelice, a former Runnemede police Lieutenant. “For a time, he drove a bus at Glassboro State (now Rowan University). John said when those pretty girls were on the left side of the bus, he had to turn his entire head to see them. Fortunately, he never had any accidents, but he got close to hitting the car in front of him numerous times. I love John, and I will miss him a lot. ”

"John was an outspoken contributor to Cleary's Notebook," asserted editor and owner Bill Cleary Sr. "Despite relocating from Gloucester City, he called out the local mayor and council members for their relentless property tax hikes. For example, in one comment, he wrote to the mayor, "If you have nothing to hide, you hide nothing. It's time for a huge change in Gloucester. The town fathers are wasting taxpayers' money and have been doing so for years. The waterfront could be a money maker for Gloucester. Mayor & Council, please remember that you work for the people."

He did not hold back in criticizing the highway department for neglecting the maintenance of the bathrooms at Proprietors Park and the deplorable state of the roadways in Gloucester City. On numerous occasions, John criticized the local government for not hiring a full-time city administrator and the police chief for eliminating the weekly crime report. Bill also emphasized that John was adamant about casting his vote for Donald Trump.

Mr. Dunkirk, age 77, died on June 25, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Ann (nee Cardona); his son, John Dunkirk; his stepson, Samuel F. Procito, Jr.; and by brothers and sisters. 

A memorial service was held on July 2, 2024, at the Egizi Funeral Home. 

Some memorable comments from friends on the funeral home’s website are below. 

AMaria Brent

When I met Ruthie at Parke Place, she was a widow and missing her husband. She told me her husband used to greet her by saying, "Lucy, I'm home!" Then she met John, and what did John say to her? "Lucy, I'm home!” Ruthie saw that as a sign that John was sent to take care of her and love her, and he did. John helped everyone at Parke Place, guiding us through many difficulties and working to improve things. He was the "go-to guy," resourceful, and a problem-solver, a trustworthy man with a generous heart. I will never forget him or the love and care he gave to my family, especially my daughter. I am sorry he is gone.

June 27, 2024

 

Janet Widrick

John and I worked for the Borough of Glassboro. All around good guy. He would do anything for his "girls."
There were 17 women in our building, and JOHN! I will remember his kind heart and willingness to help with any occasion. We had many laughs and quite a few good Christmas parties. RIP, Johnny boy; we love you and will keep your Ruthie in our prayers, too. Janet Caporusso Widrick.

 

Dear Ruthie,

 

For the past month, I have been trying to contact John. I was deeply saddened to hear about his passing and shocked to learn the news, as I hadn't heard from him in quite some time. I tried contacting him via emails, text messages, and phone calls, but I didn't receive any response. When I called my phone number for him, someone else answered, which was concerning.

 

John and I have been friends for decades, and I also had strong friendships with his brothers and sisters. My heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family. Please know that you are in our prayers during this difficult time. If there's anything I can do to support you, please don't hesitate to let me know. 

 

Sincerely, with love, 

Bill and Connie Cleary Sr.