William A. Dunn

William A. (Bill) Dunn, 93, passed away of natural causes on March 18, 2017. He was born September 25, 1923 to Frederick R. and May P. Dunn in Salt Lake City Utah. Bill married his forever sweetheart, Charlene Robins, on January 11, 1944. Bill lived a full life loving his wife, of 73 years, and family and all the happiness and challenges it presented.

Bill graduated from South High School where he was active in student affairs including ROTC captain and as a school cheerleader.

Bill joined the U.S. Army Air Force in World War II and received his commission and pilot’s wings in 1944. After further training with twin engine B25 bomber, he was assigned to the 81st Squadron of the 12th Medium Bombardment Group in the China-Burma-India (CBI) theater of operation where he flew 53 missions before being transferred to the flight section of the Tenth Air Force with headquarters in Calcutta, India. His duties took him to many areas and cities in the Orient. He, at times, flew as copilot, on the personal aircraft of General George Stratemeyer, commanding general, U.S. Air Force Far Eastern Theater. Bill received the Air Medal with cluster and other appropriate campaign ribbons. He attained the rank of Captain while in the Air Force Reserves.

Following the war, Bill attended the University of Utah receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism/political science. He went to work at the Deseret News where he worked as a sports reporter, city desk reporter, copy editor, editorial writer, and Assistant City Editor.

In 1961, Bill accepted a position as Corporate Director of News and Public Affairs at KSL Television/Radio before returning to the Deseret News as Assistant Business Editor.

Bill accepted the position as Associate Director of the Utah Industrial Promotion Division. In this position, he worked with Gov. Calvin R. Rampton and other leading business executives in promoting business opportunities within the state. He worked for three years before joining the Salt Lake Area Chamber of Commerce as manager of the Economic Development Council. Bill left the Chamber and joined Salt Lake County as the Director of Management Planning, and subsequently Director Support Services Division and Facilities Management Division.

Bill was President of Utah Industrial Development Executive Association (UIEAO) President, of the Utah Chapter of Sigma Delta Chi National Journalism Society, Vice President of the Salt Lake City Optimist Club, Board Member of Youth, Inc. and Multiple Sclerosis Society of Utah.

Bill started skiing at Alta, Utah in the late 30’s when there was only one single-seat chair lift. He skied Alta into his late 70s. He enjoyed golfing, swimming, camping, and family outings. Most of all, was the immeasurable pleasure he derived from being with his family and the deep love he had for each of them.

Bill is survived by his wife, Charlene: two children Shawnee L Wayman (Ken) and William A. Dunn II; five grandchildren Benjamin Wayman (Anna), Sara Voortmeyer (Rob), Wm Andrew Wayman (Angie), Wm Powell Dunn, Jordan Dunn; and 8 great-grandchildren; sister Barbara Hansen (Hal). A special thanks to Doug Brown who became his friend and right hand man. He was preceded in death by his parents, his one day old son Kerry Allen, and brother Ray Dunn.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 24, 2017 at 2:00 pm at the Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary. 3401 Highland Drive, Salt Lake City. Viewing will be held one hour prior to services at the mortuary. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The March of Dimes, in honor of his daughter who had polio. Online condolences may be shared at www.wasatchlawn.com