Harold James Dunlevy

Harold James Dunlevy, 93, of Austin passed away on February 21, 2013. He was born in San Antonio on January 31, 1920 to Emma Siebert and John Garvin Dunlevy. Following graduation from Breckenridge High School, he enlisted in the US ArmyAir Corps in 1942. He proudly served his country as an Air Corps Radio Operator Technical Sargent, seeing military action in northern Africa and Europe. He returned to Texas where he was united in marriage with Lucile (Cile) Wessels of La Feria TX. In 1950, he graduated from the University of Texas College of Engineering with a degree in Civil Engineering and worked for the Texas State Highway Department as a bridge design engineer until 1977. Upon retirement, Jim gained his private pilot license, enjoying many hours in the air.

Jim and Cile were vibrant members for many years of the "Mop and Hammer" group at St. Martin's Lutheran Church. Jim was known for his expertise in electrical, and any job on a ladder. They especially enjoyed their many road trips to the Rocky Mountain region where he learned to snow ski at an age when many people have retired to their rocking chairs. In addition, he discovered the joy of canoeing the Buffalo National River in Arkansas, insisting on a rematch when bested in a race with his grandsons.

Jim was a skilled woodworker and furniture maker, could repair anything, and was a great source of How-To advice to his children and grandchildren. Jim's technical and creative gifts provided a decidedly unfair advantage to his family's science fair entries. He also found time to read his way through the Mystery section of Howson Library. Jim's longtime neighbors have fond memories of chatting with him while walking his dog, Sasha, along Pecos Street.

Jim is survived by his wife of 68 years, Cile, and his four children, Patricia Evans of Harrison AR, Kevin Dunlevy of Richardson TX, Vickie Dunlevy and Lisa Bordelon, both of Austin, seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, his brother Mike John Dunlevy and wife Florence, of San Antonio.

Family members are deeply grateful to the staff at Emeritus Assisted Living, St Martin's Stephen Ministry, Hospice Austin, his physicians and care givers.

Kindly send any memorial contribution to the charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on March 2, in the Sanctuary of St. Martin's Lutheran Church.