Paul Dunkle

Paul Miller Dunkle - born April 4, 1943 died January 2, 2010.

Paul passed away peacefully Saturday afternoon surrounded by family and friends at The Ohio State University Medical Center after a sudden illness. He was born in Silvery Creek, Route 1, McArthur, Ohio, on his father’s birthday. Paul was raised in McArthur, Ohio, and spent most of his adult life in Circleville, Ohio. He graduated from the University of Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, majoring in voice, and later received a Master's of Music in voice from OSU.

He taught music to children in kindergarten through 6th grade in the Circleville City Schools for 35 years. He was recognized as Teacher of the Year for his teaching efforts. Paul served as church organist and choir director for St. Philip's Episcopal Church in Circleville for many years. He was very active in the Masonic Lodge and served as Eminent Grand Musician, often providing music for their meetings. He was also active in state and local Grange. He loved music, particularly organ music, church hymns and choirs, and supported the work of the International Hymn Society of the United States and Canada. Paul also was the founder of the Circleville All City Boys Choir. Many of his former students have come forward singing his praises for teaching them music appreciation.

He was dedicated to his community, helping many senior citizens to stay in their homes through his care and eagerly serving as a hospice volunteer.

Paul is survived by sisters Vera Woodard and Wilda Ritchey along with many nieces and nephews (Thomas Woodard, Sue Steele, Patricia Bowser, James R. Woodard, Paul E. Woodard, David Woodard, Mary Kaye Marshall, Debbie Woodard, Keith Woodard, Linda Goldstein, Doris Crego, and Kay Crego), many great nieces and great nephews and his partner, Dennis Chew of Columbus. His mother Mary Eloise Miller Dunkle, father Otis Dunkle, sister Wanetta Vanatta, nephew Donald Woodard, nephew Larry Ritchey and niece Wilda Steinmann preceded Paul in death.

Visiting hours are from 4 to 8 PM Tuesday, Jan. 5, and Wednesday Jan. 6, at the Wellman Funeral Home, 1455 North Court Street, Circleville, Ohio. The funeral service will be held at 10 AM Thursday, Jan. 7, at St. Philip's Episcopal Church, 129 W. Mound St., Circleville, OH 43113 with Father Phillip Harris presiding. Donations can be made to St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Circleville, Ohio, or Hospice of Pickaway County, 702 Pickaway St., Circleville, OH 43113.