Raymond “Smokey” F. Dunkle

Raymond F. “Smokey” Dunkle, 88, of Catawissa, died Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at Emmanuel Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation, Danville. He was preceded in death by his wife Donna M. (George) Dunkle. 

Born October 24, 1937, in Milton, he was a son of the late Raymond F. Dunkle, Sr. and Winifred (Leone) Dunkle. 

Smokey proudly served his country in the Air Force and later continued his service with the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard. His working years also included retirement from the Press Enterprise, where he worked as a delivery person, and time spent at Lake Glory Campground as a maintenance person. He did that work not only because he was dependable and capable, but because he loved to socialize with the campers and be part of the community around him. 

He was a member of Catawissa Christian Church and a lifetime member of the Catawissa Fire Hall. He was also the number one fan of the Southern Columbia Football Team and followed them with great enthusiasm. Smokey enjoyed woodworking, even if he never quite finished everything he started, and he found his greatest joy in spending time with people. Whether he was sharing a conversation, lending a hand, or simply being present, he valued connection above all else.

He is survived by his two daughters, Holly Carl of Mt. Carmel and Kelly Raup and her husband Rick of Catawissa. He also leaves behind four grandchildren, Angela, Nathan, James, and Emilia, along with seven great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his brother, Robert Dunkle of Oklahoma, and his sister, Priscilla Billman of Milton.

In addition to his wife and parents, Smokey was preceded in death by his brother, Ronald Dunkle; and his sister, Patsy Dunkle. 

A graveside service to honor the life of Smokey will be held 2 p.m. Monday, June 29 in Mt. Zion Cemetery, 6 Orchard Drive, Catawissa, with full military honors. 

Family and friends may send online condolences to allenrhornefuneralhome.com. The Allen R. Horne Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Catawissa is handling arrangements. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Raymond “Smokey” F. Dunkle, please visit our floral store.