Robert Lee Dunlap

Bob Dunlap was born in Hillsboro, Tex., on August 28, 1922. He graduated from the Hillsboro High School Class of 1941. Bob immediately moved to Houston, Tex., and accepted a position in a local shipyard. With World War II escalating in Europe, Bob answered the call of his country by entering The United States Air Force on December 22, 1942. Bob successfully completed USAF training and was assigned to the 8th Air Force, 44th Bomb Group, 68th Squadron, also known throughout the Armed Forces as "The Flying Eight Balls". This elite squadron flew B-24 bombers from Norwich, England, to countless targets in Germany. Their brave efforts were a crucial element in Victory for The Allied Forces. Bob received many decorations for his contributions, including The Air Combat Medal, and Silver Wings awarded as a result of aerial combat aboard the B24 Liberator Bomber. Bob received an Honorable Discharge in November of 1945, shortly after VE Day. Bob asked that his love, respect, and great admiration, be extended to fellow crew members Col. Clayton Roberts, William Lundquist, John Roberts (deceased), and his good friend, Art Aronoff. After attending The University of Texas, Bob began a lifelong career in the brokerage of real estate and insurance. Through hard work, faith, and commitment, Bob became a Master Mason, life membership, in Austin Masonic Lodge 12. In addition, he was a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason and Noble in The Ben Hur Shrine Temple of Austin. Their legacy of charity, and service to others, became keystones in the foundation of his life. Having been a friend of Bill W. for more than 34 years, Bob considered serving his fellow man in need to be his responsibility and his greatest privilege. He gave freely of the gifts he had been given. He was truly an Ambassador of The Fellowship. Bob was preceded in death by his grandfather, Dr. M.W. Brian and wife Jenny. Also preceding him are his father and mother, James Lee and Gladys Brian Dunlap, his brother, James Lee Dunlap, and his lovely sister, Gladys Marie Dunlap. Bob is survived by two children and several grandchildren residing in Florida. A memorial service will be held at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home on Thursday, November 3, 2005, at 5:30 p.m. Interment will be in the family plot at Ridge Park Cemetery in Hillsboro, Texas. Bob was a confirmed Episcopalian. Pallbearers will be Ryan Toney, Guy Roush, Charles Clark, Buddy Shively, Forrest Troutman, Barry Carstetter, and Teny Bonds. Honorary Pallbearers will be all the members of his beloved home, The Northland Group.