Mr. Dunham was born on August 4, 1933 in Brookville, Pa. to William Basil and Ruth (Bussler) Dunham. He was a 1949 graduate of Andover Central School and later served in the United States Marine Corps. Upon leaving the military he earned an Associate’s degree in Accounting from Alfred State College. On March 26, 1955 he married Ruby A. McDowell, who predeceased him on June 5, 1990.
Robert began his working career as an accountant for Bradley Producing in Wellsville. Bob, along with his good friend Duff Kibbe, partnered together to form Kibbe & Dunham Plumbing and Heating in Wellsville, which operated for over 30 years. They also owned K & D Bar in Andover for 10 years.
Bob is survived by three daughters, Yvonne (Jody) Johannessen of Irvine Calif., Ann (Tom) Smith of Fate Tex., and Laura Loucks of Wellsville; three sons, William (Sharon) Dunham of North Pole, Alaska, Robert Dunham and David (Malena) Dunham, both of Wellsville; 16 grandchildren, Robbie Johannessen, Jared Johannessen, Kristen Loucks, Brad Loucks, Elizabeth Loucks, Jennifer Moran, Mary Henigan, Nicole Price, Kayla Dunham, Abby Dunham, Ashley Nelson, Morgan Dunham, Brooke Dunham, Ryan Dunham, Chelsie James, and Jaelynn Dunham; 15 great-grandchildren: and several nieces, and nephews.
In addition to his wife of 35 years, he was predeceased by his longtime companion, Maxine Simons; a son-in-law, Terry Loucks, five siblings, Jean, Paul, Aretta, William, and Louise “Edie” and grandson, Tommy Smith.
He was an avid golfer and a longtime member of the Wellsville Country Club and a past Wellsville Country Club Champion. He was also a member of Andover American Legion before switching his membership over to the Wellsville American Legion.
A favorite pastime for Bob and Ruby was the slow evening drives around the countryside looking for bear. In his later years, Bob spent the winters in Southport, N.C. with Maxine where they played golf together until her passing in 2020.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no prior visitation. There will be a graveside service for immediate family at Stannards Cemetery where he will be laid to rest beside his wife.
Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Wellsville/Scio. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
Memorial contributions in Bob’s name may be made to Hart Comfort House of Allegany County, 141 E. State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. © 2024 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.
