Kem Frank Dunnebacke

Leaving behind to honor and cherish Kem's life and memory is his loving wife of 24 years, Zelia Dunnebacke.

Kem was a man of many interests and talents. He did not bother with conventional thinking. He enjoyed his engines; cars, planes, boats and motorcycles were some of his passions.

He made up his mind he wanted to learn to fly. So, he took courses, earned his pilot’s license and built a plane. Kem and Zelia flew often to Maryland just to have a fresh seafood dinner. Who does that?! For a time, he operated the Tasty Area 51 Diner at our own New Bern Regional Airport, because he loves to cook. Kem was a beekeeper. If you ever have a chance to taste his honey, you will not be disappointed!

Most recently Kem decided he wanted to learn to sail. So, he bought a sailboat and was well on his way to securing his title of captain. It’s not often that you meet a person who gets an idea to do something and then follows through with a plan. Kem, you will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Kem's memory to your favorite charity of choice.

The family will receive visitors from 4:00-5:00 pm on Monday, January 20, 2025, at Cotten Funeral Home. A celebration of Kem's life will begin at 5:00 pm.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Kem Frank Dunnebacke.