Christopher Meryl Dunkle

Christopher Meryl Dunkle was born in Long Beach, California, on September 7, 1954. His early years were spent in a haunted house, where he often recounted the eerie experiences that shaped his childhood. A gifted musician, Chris shared his love of music through guitar and singing throughout his life, bringing joy to those around him.

In 1979, he found love when he met Elaine Dechter at a New Year's Eve party. Their marriage marked the beginning of a beautiful journey together. In 1980, they moved to Sonoma County, and their family grew with the birth of their beloved daughter, Ilana, in 1988. Chris dedicated much of his career to tech support, using his impressive skills not only to fix computers but to empower others with knowledge. He took immense pride in his work at Calpine Corp. and later at the College of Marin, where he made lasting connections. 

Chris was not just a talented professional; he was a devoted husband and father who cherished his time with his family. The loss of Elaine in 2010 was a profound heartbreak for him, leaving a void that was hard to fill. However, after nearly a decade, he found love once again with Susan Perkins. As they planned a future together, he faced the challenges of frontotemporal dementia. Chris passed away on May 5, 2025, with Susan lovingly by his side, a testament to the strength of their bond. 

He is survived by his daughter, Ilana, and his younger brother, Marque, who will carry his memory forward. A memorial service is being thoughtfully organized by Ilana and Susan to honor his life and legacy. For those wishing to remember Chris through a charitable gesture, Canine Companions for Independence held a special place in his heart. 

In his own words:

His mother, after 3 girls of her own, three girls from her brother-in-laws wife and a girl from her sister-in-law, didn't even have a boys name picked out. She always insisted that as she was being wheeled into the delivery room, she heard "the Voice of God" tell her "You will meet your son, and you will call him Christopher. And so she did.

“Music has been a major influence in my life from the very beginning. My parents were musicians, my older sisters all played violins, violas, the piano, and all of us sang; even performing an opera for (and with!) our neighbors. Later in life I have mostly played folk music and written a few songs.”

“I was an avid camper while I was in my teens, and took several backpacking trips with friends or family. I also took many car-camping trips with my high-school girlfriend. We found some truly beautiful places simply by driving around and asking folks. Red Rock Canyon in Arizona, Sequoia National Park, and many smaller parks and places.”

“I first met my wife at a New Years Eve party at the communal house where my mother lived. I saw her when she walked in with an old friend of mine, and I still remember thinking "Wow! Too bad she's with him".

Later, another friend "fixed her up with me" and it stuck.”

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