Robert Francis Dunlap

HENDERSONVILLE — Robert Francis Dunlap, 82, of Hendersonville, died on Wednesday, July 24, 2013, at the Elizabeth House.

A native and life long resident of Henderson County, he was born on June 12, 1931, to the late Paul W. Dunlap and Wilma Allen Dunlap. He was also preceded in death by his loving wife of 56 years, Louise who died Aug. 2, 2010, and his brother, Wesley Dunlap of Hickory who died Dec. 20, 2013.

He graduated from Hendersonville High School and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict where he earned the rank of Staff Sergeant in the Air Police. He was of the Episcopal faith.

He retired from Olin Corporation after 38 years of faithful service and was an avid farmer and outdoorsman. He raised cattle, showed horses with his daughter, Denise, enjoyed many types of sports, and being involved in all aspects of his family's life. They were his greatest loves. He was after-all, first and foremost, a "Daddy".

He is survived by his daughter, Deborah Lunsford and her husband, James; his two sons, Dennis Dunlap and Douglas Dunlap; his daughter and primary caregiver for the last few years, Denise Dunlap all of Hendersonville. He is also survived by his three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2013, at Thos. Shepherd's Church Street Chapel with Chaplin Jane McKown officiating. Burial will follow the service at St. Matthews Cemetery on Brookside Camp Road. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. on Friday, July 26, 2013, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge Community College Education Fund for the Bob and Louise Dunlap Memorial Nursing Scholarship, 180 W. Campus Drive, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

A register book is available online for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.