Mark Dunlap

Mark Dunlap, 57, of Princeton, IN, passed away unexpectedly on December 27, 2023, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, IN, due to complications from heart surgery. This beloved family man and friend was born at the Allen Sanitarium in Robinson, IL, on December 21, 1966 (the same infamous day that his dad's coon dog Molly gave birth to a litter of pups!)

Raised in Hutsonville, IL, and a proud graduate of the Hutsonville High School Class of 1985, Mark's work ethic would prove to be as robust as his ability to love and serve others. This was demonstrated through his employment at the Pepsi plant, Allen Foods, Nussbaum Trucking, and most notably, his 25-year tenure with Toyota in Princeton, where he was part of the inaugural wave of hires in 1998. More than a co-worker, Mark was a friend and father figure to many over his years there. Whether by donating tools to a divorced colleague or playing an instrumental role in the rehabilitation of a troubled associate, he left indelible impressions of care that benefitted the lives of so many in his periphery. In fact, it could be said that Mark's life was a patchwork of rescue missions, not only for canines but for countless individuals who found in him a sanctuary and the unfaltering belief that everyone deserves to be loved.

Mark was the prototype of relentless ambition. He could fix everything from a car to a house to a heart. Though he was well-versed in starting projects, the needs of others always took priority over his own undertakings. His commitment to his family was unmatched, always being present at their beck and call, much like a protective and unwavering mountain. (Those who knew him best could attest that he could be as unmovable and hard-headed as a mountain as well!)

An avid collector of knives, guns, hats, and Pepsi memorabilia, Mark was also an avid sports fan. For years, he followed the Indianapolis Colts and St. Louis Cardinals and shared this passion by attending several games with his family. His love of family and sport further collided when he got heavily involved with his daughters' softball league a number of years ago. Mark's presence was a fortress of understanding and encouragement, a man whose humor and wisdom reverberated through the lives of many. The firepit on his property wasn't just a gathering place; it was a symbol of the warmth and light he brought into the world.

Praised as a man resolute in his endeavors, handy with any tool, generous with his time, and above all, overflowing with love, Mark Dunlap's absence will be keenly felt by all those fortunate to have known him. His legacy is not one of sorrow but of inspiration, a call to live passionately and give selflessly, finding a firm foundation in love's unwavering anchor. In his memory, may we learn to celebrate each day with the same generosity and tenacity of spirit that Mark Dunlap exemplified so effortlessly.

He married Tanya Houser on June 24, 1991, and she survives. He is also survived by his children, Travis & Livia-Ray Houser, Devin Wesley, Miranda & Kyle Miller, Kaylee & Joshua Ezell, and Keysha Dunlap; by his grandchildren, Aiden, Lincoln, Aryanna, Landon, Ryker, Draven, Evelynn, Graham, Theodore, and Desmond; by his mother, Betty Dunlap; by his siblings, Marilyn Rego, Gary Dunlap, Cheryl Rodrick, and Darla Boehl; by his mother-in-law, Audrey Houser; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Byrl Dunlap, and his father-in-law, William Houser.

A time of visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 30th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson, IL. A funeral service will immediately follow and be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. During the service, family and friends will have the opportunity to share their favorite memories of Mark and express what made him so special. For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

Burial will be in the Robinson New Cemetery. Memorials may be made to two organizations near and dear to Mark's heart: "It Takes A Village No-Kill Rescue" in Evansville, IN, or to "Special Olympics Indiana". Memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home.