James Wesley Dunkleberger

James W. Dunkleberger, age 80, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Kokomo, Indiana and raised in Mishawaka, Indiana. James dedicated his life to service, hard work, and family. He answered the call of duty in 1965 with pride, serving 20 years in the United States Navy with two tours to Vietnam and retiring as a EO Senior Chief Petty Officer with many meritorious awards for service. His love for his country continued as he worked another 24 years with the 20th Naval Construction Regiment in Gulfport, where his commitment, leadership, and loyalty left a lasting impact on all who served alongside him.

James was a man of many talents and passions. He enjoyed carpentry, was known for his skill with his hands, and found joy in a good game of darts as a proud member of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Dart Association, with many awards for said sport and many friends made. He was also a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion, treasuring the fellowship of those who shared in his devotion to service. Above all, James’ heart belonged to his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who led with quiet strength, love, and kindness.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse D. Dunkleberger and Miriam A. Rush; brother-in-law, John Kronewitter; and sister-in-law, April Dunkleberger

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 55 years, Carol A. Parsons Dunkleberger, who he married in Sabana Seca, Puerto Rico and his sons, David Lee (Stephanie) Dunkleberger and Joseph Scott Dunkleberger; his siblings, Sister-Anna May Kronewitter (John), sister, Cara Sue (Dana), Keeton, and brother, Daniel Lee (April) Dunkleberger; his grandchildren, Alexis Rae, Hannah Lea (Casey) Hawkins, Addison Marie, and Davie Lynn; and his great-grandchildren, Evelyn Lee Hawkins, Aspen Montgomery Lee Hawkins, and Zeppelin Dunkleberger. His life and legacy will continue to live on through them, along with the many friends and loved ones whose hearts he touched.

A procession will depart Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, at 8:50 a.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025, to Biloxi National Cemetery. Burial with full military honors will take place at 10:00 a.m., with the Patriot Guard Riders joining the procession to honor his service.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to serve the Dunkleberger family.