Conesus: At age 90, Neal passed away peacefully on August 6, 2024, at Noyes Hospital in Dansville. He was born on June 20, 1934, to the late Grover and Eleanor (VanVleck) Dunkleberg. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Noelle (Raymond) Walker, sister Gail Mann, brother, Jay Dunkleberg, and brother-in-law, William Loeber. He is survived by his wife, Cecile (Sabik) Dunkleberg, daughter, Karen (Fernando) Savella, stepson, Louis Polizzi, sisters, Linda Loeber and Dana Bosson, sister-in-law Nancy Dunkleberg, Grandchildren, Jonathan (Hajin), Aaron and David Savella (Kisaira), Jenna Polizzi, Janay DeLisle, and Jessica Yttrie. Great grandchildren Ada and Vivian Savella, and several nieces and nephews.
Neal was a ‘larger than life’, outgoing, people-friendly, (in fact a people-seeking) person. He went out of his way to meet people – at a wedding, a restaurant, or wherever he was, and was regularly the life of the party. Kids were always delighted by him as he got down to their level and talked with (not to) them.
Neal was one of the smartest men most had ever met and he was a teacher and mentor to many from a young age. Many of his best friends are 15 years or more his junior. If you had a question, Neal usually had the answer, be it something about psychology, medicine, astrophysics, chemistry, nuclear weapons – the list goes on – as his interests were wide and varied. One could find just about anything in his library. He was funny, witty, and compassionate. His knowledge, wit and sincerity made him sought-after and loved by folks from 2 to 102.
Not only did Neal know facts, he knew how to do things. He built his home (with a bit of help) in Conesus, he was a skilled writer and editor, he knew how to fell a tree that he couldn’t get his arms around, he could carve leather, he could cook, and so much more.
Neal loved to sing – always waking up singing a song – and could move from Opera to The Who to Tom Lehrer without a hitch. We can hear him singing still…
Neal had a positive influence on just about everyone he met and will be dearly missed by all who he touched.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 8th from 1-5 PM at the Willow Creek Venue 3100 Rochester Rd., Lakeville, NY 14480. Neal will receive Air Force Military Honors at 1 PM. Memorial contributions can be made to Genesee Valley Conservancy, 1 Main St, Geneseo, NY 14454. To send a condolence or share a memory please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
Though you teased me unmercifly for years growing up by fliping your wet cheerios at me during breakfast to leaving strange “gifts” on my bed! Tho I couldn’t stand you for years, you turned out to be a really sweet old Grampa and showed me that side of this last 4th of July when you won over the love of my grand daughter Addie. When she left to go home she pointed at you and stated l “Iike that man,he’s funny! FLY HIGH MY BROTHER, CATCH YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE. LOVE LELA (LINDA)
Neal was not just a brother-in-law; he was a mentor, a teacher, and a friend. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people, always reaching out with a joke, a flirtatious comment, or a kind word that made you feel seen and appreciated and time spent at Silver Lake, Conesus, hiking, camping, singing, walking the woods, with his wonderful family and friends, and my sister, whom he loved so much, made the world feel a little larger and our problems a little bit smaller.
Neal embraced every moment with enthusiasm. His laughter and joy of life were infectious, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. His presence in our lives was a gift, and his memory will continue to inspire and guide us. He taught me, and many others, how to find joy in life, no matter the circumstances.
We’ll miss his laughter, jokes, singing, wisdom, kindness, and love. But there’s comfort in knowing what a life of adventure and learning he lived—a life that touched so many.
We are so sad hearing of Neil’s passing. I met Neil 50 years ago at Silver lake as a teenager & thought he was God! He surely will be missed.Rest in Peace Neil.
Ciele,So very sorry to hear about Neal’s passing. So many happy memories of his visits and ours there. Such fun being around him. I know Bob will be telling him hunting stories now. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
The Veterans Outreach Center extends our deepest sympathy in Neal’s passing.We acknowledge and are truly grateful for his service to our country.
I haven’t seen Neil in years but I’ll always have very fond memories of him…he was truly loved.
So sad to hear about Neal’s passing. He was a wise and eclectic man. We shared a lot of dinners and conversations. We will dearly miss him. Our sincerest condolences to all of his family and friends. Munira and John.
He was definately a man of such knowledge. Always enjoyed visiting with cousins Cecile and Neal. May he rest in peace.
So sorry to hear of Neal’s passing. He was a fun neighbor and always entertaining. He and Cecile came and plowed a section of our land so we could plant a garden when we first moved to Marrowback. Always kind, always witty, when I would stop by to deliver apple cider. He and Cecile had a wonderful garden accompanied by Ringo, my favorite dog who always came to greet me. Rest in peace friend.
I’ve known Neal since 1973 (51 years). The obituary does cover his attributes, and is not an exaggeration. He has helped me from repairing and upgrading my mother’s house (including putting in a new electrical service, and fixing plumbing problems) to proof reading my manuscripts from College, at Work, and my professional life. Neal was always ready to listen to, and sing with me. He could communicate with 6 year old kids to old widows. He was “sweet and innocent” and funny. He was a unique person, and I feel privileged to have known him.
My deepest condolences to you, Cecile.
Most sincerely,
Charlotte Siepka
My oldest friend in age and years of friendship (nearly 60 years) passed away this week. I have no words that better describe him than his obituary. Neal and his family remain an important part of my family. I will always love and miss him, and feel I am a better person for having been close to him for so long. He is Uncle Neal to my children, grandchildren, and dozens of other friends children. See you again in heaven, Neal.