Joan A. Dunning

She was raised in Fredonia and attended Fredonia Schools. Joan graduated from Fredonia High School, Class of 1949, where she was a Fredonia High cheerleader and active in various other extracurricular activities. She continued her education at SUNY Fredonia where she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degree in education.

She married David “Mick” Dunning in December 1950. The couple was married for 32 years at the time of “Mick’s” death in 1982.

Joan spent her entire 30 year teaching career with the Fredonia Central School District. Her first 8 years were spent at Wheelock School, where she taught grades three and five. For the next 22 years she was the Coordinator of Reading for the Fredonia Schools. She retired in 1987.

Always an active woman, she had many interests including: antiquing, gardening, refinishing furniture and travel. Joan was a member of the Fredonia Preservation Society and was involved with the restoration of the 1891 Fredonia Opera House. She also volunteered with the Friendly Kitchen.

Joan is survived by her children: Paula (John) Hughson of Fredonia, David Jr. “Mick” (Karen) Dunning of Dunkirk and Joseph (Elaine) Dunning of Bath, N.Y.; grandchildren: David III “Mick” (Cady) Dunning and Melissa Snow, Marshall (Rebecca) and Tempest Rice; great grandchildren: Anisa and Orion Snow, Charlotte and Isla Dunning; also lifelong friend, Jean Schauffler. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband “Mick”, Joan is predeceased by her sisters: Helen, Sally and Patty.

No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in Mrs. Dunning’s memory may be made to the 1891 Fredonia Opera House, Box 384, Fredonia, N.Y. 14063. Online condolences may be made at larsontimko@netsync.net.

Arrangements by David J. Dengler, LARSON-TIMKO Funeral Home, 716-679-9000.