John ”Jack” Dunlap, 69, a decorated World War II veteran and retired Chicago police officer and radio dispatcher, died Wednesday in Phoenix, Ariz. According to his brother, James, Mr. Dunlap received the Navy Marine Medal for Valor and the Purple Heart. He was awarded the medals for rescuing several sailors in action during World War II in the Pacific despite severe head injuries, James Dunlap said.
Mr. Dunlap dove from his lifeboat to carry a lifeline to a raft full of sailors who were in danger of going down with their sinking minesweeper, the U.S.S. Swerve, his brother said.
Born in Chicago, Mr. Dunlap graduated from Englewood High School. He was a Chicago police radio dispatcher and patrol officer for 25 years. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police and the Illinois Police Association.
Mr. Dunlap moved to Phoenix in 1978, where he was a member of St. Joseph`s Catholic Church.
Mr. Dunlap is survived by his wife, Marlene ”Mickey”; a daughter, JoAnne Bennett; two brothers; and four grandchildren.
Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday in Sunland Mortuary, 15826 Del Webb Blvd., Sun City, Ariz. Mass will be said at 10 a.m. Saturday in St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church, Sun City.
