CHICAGO NATIVE, JOANNE DUNAGAN, Career Teacher in Chicago Schools
– Joanne Dunagan, a Chicago native who grew up in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood, died at her home in Ocala, Florida Tuesday, January 17. She was 88 years old and was a Florida resident since 2005.
Ms. Dunagan was the second oldest of five children of Clarence Dunagan, II and wife Mildred (Grogan) Dunagan. She attended St. Xavier School (that later became Mother McAuley High School) and earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from St. Mary’s, Notre Dame. Ms. Dunagan worked for an advertising company for a while before getting her teaching certificate. She taught English at Oak Lawn High School before moving to the Chicago Public School system.
Much of her teaching with CPS was in Special Education. She taught at La Rabida Children’s Hospital in Chicago, serving children whose illness required long-term stays. In 1970, Ms. Dunagan purchased property in Wilton, Wisconsin that included a farmhouse, two barns and plenty of acreage. She spent summers and holidays there until she retired. She was generous in sharing the farm with family and friends and all agreed they learned a lot there and always had an enjoyable time. She gave up the tranquility of country living and cold Wisconsin winters and moved to the warmth of Florida. A web search brought her to Ocala and the Ocala Palms community where she enjoyed her daily swim, watching sports and studying with tapes from The Great Courses. She was adept at using email to communicate with her nieces and nephews, always commenting on the news and information she received and passing it on. She was definitely the hub for the transmission of news among the family.
Ms. Dunagan was preceded in death by her parents, her eldest brother, Clarence Michael (Mike) Dunagan, III and her youngest brother, Kevin P. Dunagan. She is survived by a brother Dr. David Dunagan of Varna, IL and a sister Suzanne Connely of Homewood, IL., eleven nieces and
nephews and fourteen grand nieces and nephews.
Burial will be private. Her life will be celebrated at the Ocala Palms clubhouse at a later date.
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Would like to thank Nicole and Sarah for there help guiding us through the process.
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Nothing can prepare you for the loss of a loved one. When our father passed away recently, my sister and I were left to process our grief while simultaneously working through what has to be done when someone dies. From the minute I first spoke to Kyle at Coast to Coast Cremations, I knew I was talking to someone who could help us navigate this process with patience, understanding and empathy. I cannot speak highly enough of Kyle; his knowledge and compassion made this difficult time so much easier. He was available any time we needed him, to answer any questions we had. We will always be grateful to him.
I was so lost hearing that my Twin Sister had passed away so suddenly, I had called Coast to Coast cremation and I was blessed to talk to Kyle Johnson, I really don't know what I would have done without his help. Kyle was so understanding and so caring, he helped me throughout this terrible time in my life and it didn't matter to him how many times I called he was so very caring, he made me feel that he was a close family friend and I will never forget this man for helping me through one of the worse times of my life, I knew that my Sister Gale was going to be well taken care of. Thank you Kyle and God bless you, I feel like you are a Dear Friend.
We had to make a decision that no one wants to. We didn't know all the prearranged details and had to investigate which thought we resolved some days prior. We we didn't anticipate that we would be on the phone for hours calling one number to another, devastating; however everyone was very nice, politful and very helpful. Doing so Coast To Coast was one of the recommendations. We went with then and we were truly satisfied by their gentleness, professionalism, and very helpful in giving us advices. I do plan on using them when my time comes.
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Never had I ever had to worry about burying someone. I didn't know where to start. I was exhausted with emotion . I had called other crematories and received very cold, shallow replies and then I called Kyle. Kyle , I just want you to know how much your kind voice and understanding meant to me. We need more of you in this world. Thank you ! I highly recommend !
Kyle has made a difficult situation so much easier. I have never handled these situations before and Kyle guided me through everything. He understands that questions can come up at any time and uses texts and emails to communicate at all hours. He handled everything from working with the medical examiner, notifying Social Security and giving tips to locating life insurance policies. He expertise and knowledge was priceless.
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I was so upset when I lost my only son.. Not knowing who to call or what to do.. Upon making my decision to have him cremated, I called Coast to Coast and spoke to a wonderful gentleman named Kyle.. From that first call, he was always there for me, going above and beyond hiis job..Gentle, kind, understanding are only a few words to describe him.. He treated me with the upmost respect and showed such compassion...His kindness to me helped me tremendously and I will be forever grateful.. I would highly reccomend Coast to Coast..
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