Mr. Dean Alan Hunkapiller

Dean Alan Hunkapiller Born: February 15, 1968 - Died: September 8, 2016 Dean Alan Hunkapiller passed away on September 8, 2016, while traveling abroad, in the Philippines. He is survived by his one “true treasure” in this life, his only daughter, Katrina Dean Hunkapiller and her Mother, Remy DeGuzman Hunkapiller both of Birmingham; his Dear Mother, Nel Carr Brock of Arab; and his Dear Father, Beaul Dean (Colleen) Hunkapiller of Guntersville; his devoted sister, Carla Hunkapiller (Jeff) Highfield, of Arab; a step-sister, Kristen Shirey, of Jackson, MS; three Nieces: Mary Highfield (Jonathan) LeCroy of Huntsville; Jessica and Lindsey Highfield; two Nephews: Michael and Charlie Highfield all of Arab; and a Grand-Nephew, Jack LeCroy. Dean also has numerous Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Special Friends that will all truly miss Dean. Dean was appointed to the US Naval Academy right after High School, by the Honorable Senator Jerimiah Denton and the Honorable Senator Howell Heflin. The US Navy had recruited him heavily, due to his high academic scores. He was also a US Army Veteran who served during the Gulf War conflict and was a world-wide traveler. He had a long tenure in the Education, Business, and Financial Industries, too. He was a Professor at Virginia College; and most recently taught classes in the Philippines. He loved working with several Non-Profit organizations. Dean earned numerous Military, Educational, and Career Awards during his lifetime – most of which he never mentioned, only to be found after he passed away. He was a very humble and kind person and was never judgmental of anyone. He loved “peacefulness”. He was a Boy Scout and camped and traveled to many Boy Scout events -- even to a Jamboree in Canada once. He has hiked all over the country and even hiked a good portion of the Appalachian Trail. He did Rock Climbing even in Germany and Mexico. During High School he was a member of the Arab Wrestling Team. Dean was the Section Leader for the Saxophones in the Arab High School Band. Where he really thrived and made friendships there that truly lasted a lifetime. He Graduated from UAB College with a Bachelor’s Degree in History and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. At the time of his Death he was working on his PhD Degree in Education, which was one of his biggest passions. Since the family is still awaiting the body from overseas, a Memorial “Celebration of Life” Service will be held at the Arab First United Methodist Church, at 1058 N Main St, Arab, AL 35016, this Saturday September 17th with Visitation from 10AM to 12 Noon and the Service to begin at Noon. Pending the arrival date of Dean’s remains, a Graveside Service with Interment and full US Military Honors will be announced at a later date for all those who would like to participate --that will be held at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, atop of his beloved, Georgia Mountain – arrangements pending through Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Honorary Pallbearers: Morgan Andriulli; Robert Henry; Bart Miller; Micha Daniel; Bret McPherson; Scott Haga; James Newman; Neil Parker; Kelvin Suttles; Brent Treadwell; Greg Treadwell; Mark York; and the Arab High School Class of 1986

Mr. Dean Alan Hunkapiller

February 15, 1968 - September 8, 2016