TRAVERSE CITY — Jack Raymond Dunham, 78, longtime resident of the Grand Traverse area, was welcomed into his heavenly home as he passed away Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012, at home with his family by his side.Jack was born on Dec. 27, 1933, to the late Ernest and Alice (Hall) Dunham in Monroe Center. Jack was reunited with a love that began tenderly over Valentine candy at a young age, and resulted in marriage with the former Betty J. Milnickle on Oct. 28, 1975. Jack lived the majority of his life in Buckley and Traverse City, making a living as an employee for the State Hospital. After his 17 years on the job with the state, Jack retired in 1984. Jack enjoyed his time in retirement with the opportunity to do more and spend more time with his family. He enjoyed the outdoors and would find any excuse to take the family camping; of course, always being sure to take on the role of tending to the fire. In earlier years he spent hours on many of the inland lakes or along the shore fishing with family and friends. Jack was an avid cribbage player and would boast his talents over a friendly game or hand of cards. Jack was an active member and faithful part of First Christian Church and will be deeply missed by many.Jack is survived by his loving wife of over 36 years, Betty J. Dunham, of Traverse City; four sons, Larry Dunham, of Traverse City, Ernest (Dorothy) Dunham, of Mesick, Daniel Skurski, of Minnesota, and Michael (Cindy) Skurski, of Thompsonville; six daughters, Kathy (John) Rumen, of North Dakota, Amber Dunham and Ashley Dunham, of Traverse City, Patricia (Tim) Snyder, of Thompsonville, Amanda (Larry) Lugo, of California, and Debra Skurski, of Pennsylvania; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many other loving family members and friends.Jack was preceded in death by his son, Steven Dunham; his daughters, Marsha and Marlene Dunham; his parents; and several siblings.Funeral services will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb; 3, 2012, at the First Christian Church, with visitation one hour prior to the service. The Rev. Brett Spalding will officiate. Graveside committal services will be held in Cleon Township Cemetery in the springIn lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family.Please share thoughts with the family at Jack's online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com . The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.