In Loving Memory of Michael Joseph Dunne (1933-2024)

Remembering Michael Joseph Dunne: A Legacy of Integrity and Community Service

Naples, FL – Michael Joseph Dunne, affectionately known as Joe, passed away peacefully at his home in Naples, Florida, on Friday, July 5, 2024. At 90 years old, Joe’s life was a testament to dedication, love, and service, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Born on August 4, 1933, in Syracuse, NY, to Helen Barnett Dunne and Michael Joseph Dunne Sr., Joe’s roots were deeply embedded in the values of hard work and community service, inherited from his parents who hailed from County Kerry, Ireland. Joe’s educational journey began at St. Vincent de Paul School on Burnet Ave in Syracuse and culminated in a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from LeMoyne College in 1955.

It was during his high school years that Joe met the love of his life, Elizabeth Briceland (Betty). Their love story is one of enduring companionship, having been inseparable since their first meeting and enjoying 69 years of marriage. After college, Joe served his country from 1955 to 1957 before embarking on a distinguished career in accounting.

Joe’s professional path saw him making significant contributions to the field, first with the local accounting firm Stover Butler & Murphy, then with the Internal Revenue Service, and finally with Lybrand Ross Brothers & Montgomery, which later became Coopers & Lybrand, LLC. In 1970, Joe became a partner at the firm, eventually rising to the position of Managing Partner of the Syracuse office until his retirement in 1992. His commitment to integrity and excellence left an indelible mark on the professional and Syracuse communities, serving in various capacities including Treasurer for Inroads Upstate New York, Inc., and on the Board of Directors for the Community General Foundation.

Joe’s dedication to LeMoyne College was unwavering. As an alumnus, he served on the LeMoyne College Board of Regents and Alumni Board of Governors, championing the quality education the institution provided and taking particular pride in its outstanding accounting program.

Joe and Betty raised their family in Liverpool, New York, creating countless memories at their cottage on Wolfe Island in Ontario, Canada, and later in Naples, Florida. Retirement allowed Joe to indulge in his passions for reading, photography, and boating, always making time for family, friends, and community.

Despite his achievements, Joe’s humility shone through in every aspect of his life, even in his humorous disdain for potatoes, a nod to his Irish heritage. His leadership extended to his role on the St. Margaret’s Church Council, guiding the congregation through significant milestones.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife Betty, his daughter Kathy O’Reilly (Paul), and his granddaughters, Amanda Ferguson and Kerry Rose Dunne. He was predeceased by his son Mike Dunne, and his sister and brother-in-law, Eileen and George (Bud) Bleem.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Naples, Florida, on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, with interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery in DeWitt, NY. The family has requested contributions in memory of Joe to The Joe and Betty Dunne Scholarship Fund at LeMoyne College or to St. Margaret Catholic Church in lieu of flowers.

Joe Dunne’s life was a beacon of service, love, and integrity. His legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him and benefiting from his generous spirit.

Published by Syracuse Post Standard from Jul. 13 to Jul. 15, 2024.