Geraldine Dunkin

Geraldine L. “Gerry” (Baker) Dunkin, 81, of Plainfield, passed away April 9, 2023. She
was born March 24, 1942 to the late Crawford and Doris (Napper) Baker. Gerry
graduated from Indiana State University with B.S. and M.S. degrees in Home
Economics Education. She was a school teacher and small business owner throughout
her life. While attending university, Gerry met her loving husband, Ralph, who preceded
her in death.  She had many loves in her life including: dogs; cats; showing donkeys, cattle, and swine; baking; mowing; swimming; traveling; working in her beautiful flower beds; and joining dear friends for a great meal. One of the highlights in her life was taking her
six-hitch donkey team and wagon to the Tournament of Roses Parade in 2009.
She began her dedication to the community and serving others by being a ten-year 4-H
member in Marion County. Over the years Gerry helped many grateful 4-H members
with their clothing, baking, cattle and swine projects. She treasured the years watching
her daughter continue the family tradition of showing cattle and swine at the county fair.
Gerry was an active member in several organizations including: Hendricks County 4-H
Board, Indianapolis Home Economists’ Guild, Hendricks County Extension Board,
Masters Class Dog Training at Specks; Strides to Success (Equine Therapy
Organization), Indiana Porcelain Artists, and the Indiana Nutrition Board.
She was preceded in death by her sister, Phyllis Gladden; brother-in-law Jerry Reyburn;
sister-in-law Harlean (Maxwell) Norris; brother-in-law Raymond Norris. Survivors
include: cherished daughter, Natalie Dunkin; sister, Helene Reyburn; brother-in-law,
Frank Gladden; nieces and nephews who affectionately refer to her as “Gigi”: Jayme
Norris (Thomas Dennis); Dale (Margaret) Gladden; Marilyn (John) Garner; Julie (Greg)
Hardin; Tom (Kari) Reyburn; Bret (Rainie) Reyburn; several great nieces and nephews;
dear friend, Dee Kilgore; her beloved cat, Molly, and her constant canine companion,
Max.  The graveside service will be held on Monday, April 17, 2023, 2:00 PM at Maple Hill
Cemetery, Plainfield. A Celebration of Life Ceremony will follow that day at the
Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds, Danville, from 3:30 to 5:30 PM with a service
beginning at 5:30 where friends and family are welcome to share their personal stories
and many memories of Gerry. In lieu of flowers, Gerry’s wishes were to make
contributions to Sycamore Services designated to the Hennessy Project (Natalie’s
home, to fulfill Gerry’s wish of remodeling bathrooms and painting). Sycamore Service,
1001 Sycamore Lane P.O. Box 369 Danville, IN 46122. Gerry’s memorial fund can be
found online at https://InMemory.givesmart.com.