Ronald C. Dunkelberger, Sr.

Ronald C. Dunkelberger, Sr., 89, of Shillington, passed away on August 30, 2024. He was born on April 11, 1935, to Paul J. Dunkelberger and Sarah E. (Brendle) Dunkelberger, at a time that would soon see him embark on a life defined by service, commitment, and community involvement.

Ronald graduated from the last class of Mohnton High School in 1953. His career began at Maier's Bakery in 1960. He continued with Bimbo Bakery, formerly Maier's, until his retirement in 2017, transitioning to a consultant role where he shared his invaluable expertise.

 In addition to his celebrated career in the bakery industry, Ronald proudly served in the United States Army Reserves for 21 years, embodying the values of duty and honor. Ronald and his wife Mim, moved to Shillington in 1964, where he quickly became a staple in the community. His commitment to bettering his community extended beyond his professional life. He was a member of numerous bakery committees, The American Legion, The Shillington Lions Club — where he received the Melvin Jones Fellow Award — and the Governor Mifflin Stadium Committee. Ronald also served as a founding member of Crime Alert of Berks County as well as the Governor Mifflin School Board for 14 years and the Shillington Borough Council for 24 years, leaving an indelible mark of leadership and dedication within his community. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Key to the Borough of Shillington.

Ronald is survived by his beloved wife, Henrietta "Mim" Dunkelberger, and his children, Ronald C. Dunkelberger, Jr., husband of Kelly, Sherry Kraft, wife of Dale, and Kelly McGinnis, wife of James. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Andrew Kraft, husband of Carly, Heather Gibson, wife of Kevin, Rochelle Mastromarino, wife of Bobby, Erin McGinnis, Shannon Reber, wife of Collin, Kaitlin Lyons, wife of Isaac, Lauren Milam, wife of Sarah Fortier, Trey Dunkelberger, husband of Alisha, James McGinnis, husband of Madeline, Hunter Dunkelberger, and Shawn Brusich-McGinnis, husband of Emily. Ronald was also blessed with many great-grandchildren —Addie, Colby, Brayden, Julian, Emma, Everett, Declan, William, Frankie, Milani, Reagan, Ellie, Malia, Charlotte, Kai, and Brooks, sister-in-law, Janet Dunkelberger, and several nieces and nephews. 

Ronald is predeceased by his brothers, Merlin Dunkelberger, Richard Dunkelberger, and Larry Dunkelberger. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him, remembered for his kindness, dedication, and passion for life.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ronald's life at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Shillington, PA. A viewing will take place on Wednesday evening, September 4, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on September 5, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Following the second viewing, a funeral service will be held at the church beginning at 11:00 AM. Burial will take place in Fairview Cemetery in Shillington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Ronald’s name may be made to Immanuel Church of Christ in Shillington, 99 S. Waverly St., Shillington, PA 19607.

Ronald C. Dunkelberger, Sr. leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and community that will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known him.