Dawn Marie Bunker (nee Kolodziej), a beloved wife, mother, sister, nurse, and friend passed away peacefully earlier this month, in Essex Junction, Vermont. Born on May 2, 1939, in Amsterdam, New York, Dawn lived a full life marked by dedication to her family, her friends, her profession, and her passions.

Dawn grew up in Amsterdam and learned the value of hard work and discipline while helping her parents out working at the family bar and restaurant. She enjoyed summer days at her family's camp on Galway Lake, a place that would be special to her family her whole life. Dawn graduated from the University of Vermont School of Nursing in 1961 and started her career at the V.A. Hospital in Albany where she provided compassionate care to veterans. She soon moved to California to marry the love of her life, and worked at Stanford University Medical Center before pausing her professional journey to focus on raising her family. As an empty nester in her 40's, Dawn resumed her nursing with renewed vigor; holding positions at Fanny Allen Hospital and UVM Medical Center. Her patients and colleagues alike admired her exceptional care, uplifting personality, and boundless energy.

Dawn was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Clarence Bunker; her parents Edward Kolodziej and Stanislawa Kuk; and her brother David Kolodziej. She is survived by her children: Sarah Bunker, Christopher Bunker, and Stephen Bunker, as well as her brother Timothy Kolojay and his wife Sandy.

A devoted mother and active participant in her children's lives, Dawn embraced every opportunity to support their endeavors; serving as a Cub Scout and Brownies leader, Little League umpiring commissioner, and assistant high school tennis coach. She instilled her love of the outdoors and sports; hiking, boating, fishing, and camping into her children , and she was a skilled athlete in her own right as an avid golf and tennis player.

Dawn's thirst for knowledge and personal development never ceased; she was an avid reader and was constantly taking classes to enrich her life. Her culinary talents were legendary among family and friends, and her meals were always the highlights of gatherings both large and small. She cherished her close friendships and the fun times with her bridge friends were a true source of joy for Dawn.

Those who knew Dawn will remember her strength of character, resilience, sense of humor, and unwavering love for her family. She touched countless lives with her warmth, generosity, and zest for living life to its fullest. She will surely be missed by many.

May the memory of Dawn Marie Bunker bring comfort to all who had the privilege of knowing her. A Funeral Service will be held on August 1, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Holy Family church at 30 Lincoln Street in Essex Junction.