Jerry Ray “PaPa Bear” Dunahee

Jerry “PaPa Bear" Dunahee, 71, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday morning, August 7, 2024, with his loving wife by his side.

Bear did many things in his life. He served four years in the United States Air Force where he was a fire truck mechanic. After being discharged, Bear did many things until he fell in love with painting and wood finishing. That’s when PaPa Bear’s Pre-finish flourished, and for 18 years that was his life.

His other love was his membership to “The Highland Clan”. He loved riding his Harley and the sense of brotherhood he received from the club. He also loved to cook for his brothers, and if you ever had his beans, you know it was one of his favorites to make.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Melanie, and three brothers, Dick Dunahee, Jim (Bernice) Dunahee, and Mike Dunahee along with his friend, Kathy, and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and many friends.

A Celebration of Life for Jerry will be held this Saturday, September 14, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Highland Clan Club House, located at 5853 Sports Club Road, Rhinelander. Military honors will be conducted at 11 a.m. Please bring a dish to pass.

Go have a cocktail in remembrance of Bear!

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander, Wisconsin, 54501, 715-365-4343. Everyone is invited to leave an online condolence at www.hildebrandrussfh.com.