Willie Dunigan, Jr.

Willie Dunigan Jr. came into the world March 28th 1954 in West Side Cook County Chicago at Washington Hospital. He was the first born child to Dorothy Mae Nash & Willie Dunigan Sr.

Willie attended both elementary school and started working a paper route at 10 years old. Willie spoke highly of and enjoyed his high school days at Westinghouse in Humboldt Park and was a graduate of the 1971 Class. Willie stayed close to home and went on to enroll at University of Illinois Chicago where he became the first black college hockey player in the United States. He suffered a collar bone injury which led him straight to the service.

Willie enlisted in the United States Army where he served as a Hawk Fire Control Crewman for 3 years and 8 months, allowing him to be honorably discharged as a Rifle Expert with Army Commendation & Good Conduct Medals. Willie was so proud of his time and duty served. Once Willie was relieved from duty in 1979, he went back to further his education on the GI Bill studying Computer Science at Chicago State University. It was full speed ahead into his career as the smartest guy in the world, a Computer Scientist – IT Specialist for Rockwell International Corp in GA from 1984-1986, The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago from1986-2005, then in 2011 he decided to settle in Danville working at the Dept of Veterans Affairs until his demise.

Willie was the best father he could be to Steven, Jason, Jarren & Jessica and made sure he did the best, all the time every time for his grandchildren. When Willie transitioned from earth to heaven that Sunday in August, he was at peace, just as he always planned and hoped to be. Willie now lives eternally in the Kingdom of God with his mother, our sweet Big Ma.

Willie was a very dependable, responsible, and trustworthy son, brother, uncle, father, grandfather and friend. He was blessed to able to provide in anyones time of need. He was so funny, so smart, very honest. He loved in the toughest way with only soft spots for them grandbabies.

Willie leaves to cherish memories and carry out his legacy, siblings – Pearlie, Mark & Madeline. Children – Steve, Jason, Jarren & only daughter Jessica. Grandbabies – Quincy, Jakyla, Jakobe & Jakira. Favorite nieces and nephews - Nette, the late Felisha, Adam and Michael. His very good friend Terry & his long time best friend Tony; as well as many many cousins, friends and coworkers.

A Celebration of Life for Willie will take place at 9:30AM on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 3940 N Vermilion Street in Danville, Illinois. Burial will follow at Danville National Cemetery.

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 3940 N Vermilion Street in Danville, Illinois is honored to be caring for the family.