It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Michael David "Dunsy" Dunsmore, who left us on January 3, 2025, at his home in Bolivar, NY. He was 57 years old.
He was born on October 9, 1967 in Ithaca, NY and spent his childhood in Shinglehouse, PA and Bolivar, NY. Mike graduated from Bolivar Central School in 1986, where he excelled in athletics, making his mark as an outstanding wrestler, football player, and baseball player. His competitive spirit and love for sports carried through his life, and his time at BCS fostered lifelong friendships and memories.
Mike is survived by his wife and love of his life, Elizabeth “Liz” Beck Dunsmore, children Taylor (Collin) Morrison, Bruce (Brystal) Wilson, stepchildren Paige Bierman, Jacob Bierman, and Ella Kane, and his beloved grandchildren Maksim Morrison and Baby Morrison, Sawyer and Greyson Wilson, and Eleanor and Judson Pensyl (Bierman).
Mike is also survived by his mother, Janet Dunsmore, of Shinglehouse, PA, sisters, Deborah Dunsmore (Rick Johnston) of Shinglehouse and Diana Myers of Columbus, OH, brother, Stan Dunsmore (Sandy) of Wellsboro, PA; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Dunsmore, and his cousin and close friend, Rick “Barney” Barnett.
Following in his father's footsteps, Mike spent time coaching wrestling at BCS. During his career as a contractor, Mike impressed many with his skill and attention to detail to each home improvement project. Through the years, he was employed by the American Legion Post 772, the Chef, and the Bolivar Golf Club, becoming a familiar friend and cherished figure in the community. Mike’s kindness, generosity, easy-going personality, and ever-present smile earned him the love and respect of so many. Dunsy was the kind of person who never met a stranger—just a friend he hadn’t talked to yet.
One of Mike’s greatest joys was spending time with his friends and family, often entertaining in his garage, which became a hub of laughter, stories, and camaraderie. He cherished the visits of all his buddies and many others who will forever remember his warmth and friendship. There will always be a seat for him at the Chef alongside those that share the memories that were made.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Mark F Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service at 554 S. Main Street Bolivar, NY 14715, for viewing on Thursday, January 9th from 1:00pm – 4:00pm and 6:00pm-8:00pm. A private family memorial service will be held on Friday, January 10th. After the private service, everyone is welcome to attend a public celebration of life at the Bolivar Golf Club, starting at 12:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Coach Robert Dunsmore Scholarship Fund (Venmo @BobDunsmoreScholarship), ensuring that the legacy of both father and son continues to inspire future generations, or to the American Legion Post 772 (Venmo @Dunsy-BolivarLegion772) (387 Main St., Bolivar, NY 14715).
Rest easy, Dunsy. Bolivar lost a legend and will never be the same without you.