Kenneth R. Dunbar

Kenneth Richard Dunbar, 66, of Allendale passed away peacefully on July 11, 2023 surrounded by his family. Ken can best be described by a quote he carried in his wallet: “consistency and performance defines success.”

Ken was born and raised in Jersey City and attended St. Peter's Prep. He met his wife, Kristine, in Jersey City in 1985 and the pair fell quickly in love. He was her greatest fan as she played softball at Seton Hall University. Shortly after Kristine graduated, they married and started a family. 

Family was everything to Ken. He most loved spending time with Kristine and their three children, Kasey, Madison, and Brett. He was a stellar dad who did it all. 

Ken loved taking vacations with friends and family. He was always the life of the party on the first day of any trip; singing and dancing on the beach, earning him the moniker “first day Kenny.” Ken’s passions also included baseball cards, music, classic cars, and Notre Dame football. But Ken’s most cherished times were those spent coaching his children in basketball, softball, and soccer. He loved watching them play sports in middle school, high school, and college – he was so incredibly proud of each of them. 

A lover of animals, Ken shared a special bond with dogs. He had three wonderful golden retrievers in his lifetime; one of which was a puppy raised for the Seeing Eye Foundation. More recently Ken took an active role fostering and adopting dogs in need.

Ken loved his work at East Coast Warehouse. As Director of Facilities, he took great pride in his job. 

After leaving Jersey City, Ken lived in Branchburg, NJ, Guilderland, NY, and Allendale, NJ. In each town, Ken made lifelong friends. 

Ken Dunbar was a great friend and father figure to many. His constant singing, deep caring, and belief in others will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Ken is survived by his wife Kristine (Palazzo) and three children Kasey, Madison and Brett. Ken was predeceased by his mother Helen (Tokacs) Dunbar and father Kenneth L. Dunbar. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent in Ken’s name to The Seeing Eye, PO Box 375, Morristown NJ 07963 or https://www.seeingeye.org

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