Harold Dunlap

Harold Dunlap, 72, of Flat Rock, IL, passed away on Saturday, February 17, 2024, in the comfort of his home surrounded by his family. Born on August 29, 1951, in Vincennes, IN, Harold grew up in Birds, IL, and attended school in Lawrenceville, IL. A few years after graduating from Lawrenceville High School, Harold answered his country's call by joining the U.S. Army. Stationed in Germany from 1971 to 1973, he carried the discipline and camaraderie of military life into his civilian endeavors.

Upon returning home to civilian life, Harold initially worked as a logger, showcasing his tenacious work ethic and connection to the land. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to run his own logging business before he joined forces with George Wade's logging operation. A man committed to his community, Harold served two terms as the Honey Creek Township Road Commissioner, and as a proud member of Labor Local #1280, he contributed to the development of local schools, the Lawrenceville Prison, the Hardinville City Water project, bridges, and numerous other projects. His retirement in 2008 marked the end of his official working career, but Harold never truly retired, as he continued to dedicate himself to his beloved cows.

An outdoorsman through and through, when Harold wasn't caring for his animals, he could often be found hunting, fishing at the river, or simply enjoying the tranquility of his picnic table or back porch. His deep love for horseback riding spanned several decades, and his affinity for Westerns like Gunsmoke and Lonesome Dove mirrored his own masculine and robust nature. After all, Harold Dunlap was a man's man, unapologetically himself, embodying strength and holding steadfast to his convictions. His rugged exterior belied the warmth with which he interacted with everyone, but especially his grandchildren, who quickly became the center of his universe.

Harold's life was a testament to passion, a portrait of a man who cherished his family, labored with integrity, and left an indelible mark on his community. As we bid farewell, we celebrate the enduring impact of his life's journey and the memories that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who loved him.

He married Cathy (Montgomery) on June 4, 1986, and she survives. He is also survived by his children & their spouses, Stoney & Nichole Dunlap, Codey Dunlap, Brodi & Tony Ramsey, Kara & Jesse Gonzalez, and Duane & Katie Kerner; by his grandchildren, Tensley, Bentley, Carson, Jalisa, Walker, Ivy, Cruz, Dylan, Aubree, B.J., Brandon, Emilee, and Charlie; by his great-grandchildren, Natalie, Lakelyn, Rhett, Tate, and Landon; by his mother-in-law, Wilma Montgomery; by his aunt, Kay Riggs; by his sisters-in-law, Terry & husband Michael Stovall and Carolyn & Stan Tucker; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie Dunlap, Sr. & Grace (Coonce) Davis; by his brothers, Dennie Dunlap and Leslie "Les" Dunlap, Jr.; by his sisters-in-law, Debbie Dunlap and Judy O'Dell; and by his father-in-law, James Montgomery.

A time of visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 22nd at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Flat Rock. Funeral services will immediately follow and be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, with Pastor Steve Miller officiating. For those unable to attend, a recording of the funeral will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream following the service.

Burial will be in the Jones Cemetery, where military rites will be accorded by the combined units of the U.S. Army, the Robinson V.F.W. Post #4549, the Robinson American Legion Post #69, and the Flat Rock American Legion Post #132. Memorial contributions may be made to the Robinson "VFW Transportation Fund", with envelopes available at the funeral home.