Robert (Bob) M. Dunn died peacefully on July 25, 2022. He was 85.

He had a full and wonderful life.

He was born in Chicago to Lillian and James Dunn. After serving two years as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army, he received recognition for his quick learning and strong leadership. He earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics at Rutgers University and his master’s degree in engineering and computer sciences from University of Pennsylvania while raising his family and working full-time as a civilian mathematician and engineer for the U.S. Army.

He was instrumental in growing the capabilities of CAD/CAM, the foundation of computer design systems in use today. He was a sought-after speaker and teacher, traveling the world and presenting at conferences while, by 1976, raising his children as a single father.

In 1984 Bob met and soon married Karen, the love of his life. They were deeply in love, sharing a life of joy, travel, play, laughter, friendships and an unmatched respect and admiration for each other.

In 2000 they retired to Asheville, N.C., where he and Karen enjoyed local craft shows, botanical gardens, chamber music, theater and seeking out the best bouillabaisse. His mind was too busy and full of ideas, his heart too full of passion for helping people and his soul too full of desire to stop working. He taught classes at Warren Wilson College, Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes and Western Carolina University, and worked for Mountain BizWorks where he developed and taught classes for young business entrepreneurs, all amidst maintaining his own consulting business.

More than anything, Bob lived his life with integrity. He was a brilliant and attuned man who was sought after by family, friends and business folks for his wise counsel, engaging and deep conversations and mentoring. He loved and was devoted to responding the Earth, and he thrived on the beauty of nature, gardening, sunrises and sunsets.

He deeply loved his children and family and was a playful, silly, loving and ever-supportive father and grandfather.

He loved logic and design. He did The New York Times crossword puzzle in black ink. Always. Having read the entire encyclopedia as a youth, he had a voracious and gorgeous vocabulary. He captured his most precious feelings and thoughts in poetry. He had a beautiful, lulling singing voice, a penchant for terrific (terrible?) puns and an eternally quick wit.

He led an enduring life. While his body is gone, his spirit, his deep love for his family, his wisdom and counsel will always live on in those who knew and loved him best.

Bob is survived by Karen, his beloved wife of 38 years; son Jeremy of Becket; daughter Deb Dunn of Chilmark; step-daughter Jessica; sons and daughter in law Jim Feiner, Matt and Delsie; his beloved grandsons Elijah Dunn-Feiner and Liam; and a circle of loving friends from all walks of life.

A virtual celebration of his life will be held over Zoom on May 5. Details and the service link can be found at morrisfamilycaregroup.com.

Memorial contributions can be made to Friends of the Earth at foe.org.