Michael Francis Dunne, Sr.

Michael Francis Dunne, a native San Franciscan, passed away peacefully at home in San Francisco, with his devoted and loving wife of 14 years, Julianne Hunt, by his side, on Monday, August 19, 2024. He was 87 years old. From humble beginnings, Mike was a graduate of St. Emydius Grammar School (1951), Riordan High School (1954), San Francisco City College (1957), and The University of San Francisco (1963). Mike and Julianne had a son, Steven Zirnite (Darlene), and grandchildren: Jason Zirnite and Janae Zirnite Stromer (Heath), and great-grandchildren: Keira and Austin.

Mike was preceded in death by his son, Steven, and also by his first wife, Joan Mussallem Dunne (d. 2005). He is survived by their children: Barbara (Joan Martin), Michael Jr. (Jonna), Mary (Joe Ghiorso), Joan (Scott Wilson) Richard (Cristi), Stephen (Reiko), and Norman (Jennifer); his grandchildren Anne, Elle (Hawken), Drew, Kyle (Erin), Macey (Jakob), Kelsey (Brad), Justin, Megan, Michaela, Michael III, Kenzie, Cole, Sydney, D.J., Josie, Owen and Emily; and great grandchildren: Johnnie, Cade, Jack, Lenny and Maggie.

Mike was the son of the late Norman Edward and Elizabeth Josephine (nee Minetta) Dunne and a beloved brother to his deceased sister, Adelemarie “Susie” Dunne (2012). Other cherished relations include Mussallem living brothers- and sisters-in-law: Neil (Loret), Greg (Patricia) and Larry (Maria). Mike, lived life to the fullest, reveled in his family, and believed that having his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was his life’s greatest accomplishment.

Mike loved music of all genres, being an early adopter of the Columbia Music Records Club membership. He could whistle or hum along to any pop hit of his era or those of his kids.

A hard worker with an enduring positive outlook, Mike sold newspapers as a youth on Sloat Blvd. and at the Ferry Building, as well as packed hod and laid bricks. He started the family insurance business, Dunne Insurance, selling door-to-door, building his book with the mayor, the head of the Hells Angels and the Castro bars. He truly cared for his clients, folks from all walks of life.

Mike loved sports and games, be it cards (Gin Rummy, Pedro), dominoes, or watching the home teams play–the Giants, 49ers and Warriors.

A master handball player, he would battle opponents, always aiming for the win, no matter the score or how far down he was– the comeback kid. Having been trained in the Marines, Mike was spartan, fierce and resilient and won numerous local, state, national and world championship handball titles.

Later in life, Mike and Julianne enjoyed several international cruises to Italy, Spain, France, Greece, Turkey, Portugal, and Sicily, seeing countries and sights while meeting other travelers who shared the good times.

Mike’s family was paramount and great friends were also vital. If you knew Mike, he’d buy you a meal or a drink to share stories, talk, laugh and spend time together. He was a generous, kind, charismatic man who pulled people in and liked to gather. His twinkly-eyed smile and laugh were infectious and he will be sorely missed.

Thank you to Mike’s dedicated caregivers, Amelia, Emilia & Marbel, for their loving and kind care.

Mike requested no memorial service, but rather a simple, private, family gathering.