William "Bill" James Dunkley Jr.

William (Bill) James Dunkley Jr. died peacefully from Interstitial Lung Disease on June 20, 2025, surrounded by his family. Bill was born to Dorothy and William James Dunkley, Sr. in Jacksonville, FL on December 30, 1946. He graduated from San Benito High School in San Benito, TX in 1964. Bill attended the University of Houston and later enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was stationed at Patrick Air Force Base in Satellite Beach, FL when he met the love of his life, Sue Ann (Seiler) Dunkley. They were married on September 15, 1967. Bill was then stationed at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines, where he was a communication specialist during the Vietnam War. His love for his country carried throughout his life, and Bill was very proud to be an Air Force veteran.

Bill and Sue dedicated their life to raising their 6 sons:  Dan (Selena), Mark (Mikki), Billy (deceased, 1989), Alex (Judi), Chad (Rhonda), and Patrick (Carey). Bill was the loving grandfather of 17 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Bill and Sue lived their life for their family, and they were truly their happiest when they were surrounded by their loved ones, especially at Thanksgiving and 4th of July.  They were married for 52 wonderful years, providing a beautiful example of love for their entire family. In Sue’s final years, Bill was dedicated to taking care of her during her extended 9-year illness until Sue’s passing in November 2019. After Sue’s passing, Bill committed himself to spending every moment he could with his family, joining several family vacations and attending as many family events as possible. Bill loved fishing, especially if it was with his sons and his grandchildren. His flair for storytelling has ensured that the family’s history will be shared with future generations.

Bill always had an incredible work ethic. He started his sales career with McLean Trucking Company, and moved to London, OH in 1979. He then worked for many years as an employee of Midwest Air Equipment Company and became the owner of the company beginning in 1996. His hard work over many years has created a legacy that will allow Midwest Air Equipment Company to continue as a family-owned business.

Bill lived a life of service. As a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in London, OH, he served on Parish Council and the Building Committee for the parish center, along with many other committees. Bill was a member of the Knights of Columbus, serving as a Grand Knight. When the boys were young, Bill was an active part of the adult leadership of Boy Scout Troop 104, serving as the Scout Master for many years.  Bill, along with Sue, often spoke about giving the gift of life through organ donation at Lifeline of Ohio events in honor of their son, Billy.  Bill gave 100% of himself to everything he did, and this was especially present as he lived his life in service to others; his family is eternally grateful for his example.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Sue, his son, Billy, his parents Bill Sr. and Dorothy, and his brother Donny.

Visitation for Bill will be on Monday, June 30 from 5 until 8 PM at the St. Patrick Parish Center, located at 61 South Union Street, London, OH.  Bill’s Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, July 1st at St. Patrick’s Church at 11:00 AM, with internment following immediately at Somerford Cemetery, followed by lunch at the St. Patrick Parish Center. In lieu of flowers, donations may be offered in Bill’s name to the Knights of Columbus, Council 1786, to benefit the S.O.S. (Support our Seminarians) Fund, c/o Knights of Columbus Council 1786, PO Box 444, London, OH 43140.