William Arthur Dunnill

He was born in Chicago, Illinois, on November 30, 1937, to Lois Brand Knorst and Arthur Raymond Dunnill, who preceded him in death, as did his brother Frank Raymond Dunnill.

Bill’s academic journey began with his undergraduate studies at Rollins College, followed by a PhD in Physics from the University of Florida. His professional career spanned many years and multiple successful ventures. He began his path at Arnold Engineering and Development Center before co-founding Laser Systems in Tullahoma, Tennessee. Bill went on to become a professor at the University of Tennessee Space Institute and later served as Vice President at Sverdrup. His remarkable career culminated in his role as President of the US division at Leica Technologies.

Outside of his professional life, Bill was a man of many passions. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he loved following the Chicago Cubs, coaching youth baseball, bowling and playing softball. He embraced all things sports-related with enthusiasm and joy. In his later years, Bill found great happiness at Lake Gaston in North Carolina, and eventually, in Williamsburg, Virginia, where he enjoyed time with family and friends.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Marilyn McDaniel Dunnill, and his children: sons Billy (Susan), Brett (Tia), and Kevin Dunnill, and daughters Kimberly Knight Lawter (Rich) and Kellie Knight Falcone (Carey). He was a proud grandfather to his 11 grandchildren: Kailey Lawter, Connor Dunnill, Reid Lawter, Cole Falcone, William Dunnill, Brooke Falcone, Kathryn Dunnill, Ryker Lawter, Grace Dunnill, Ava Dunnill, and Ethan Dunnill.

A family celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date. He will be remembered for his love of family, his dedication to his career, and his passion for sports. Bill’s legacy will continue to live on through the many lives he touched, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Bill's favorite charity, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, through the link below: https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=8715476&fr_id=154020&pg=personal