Michael Dunlap

Michael James Dunlap, age 39, of Hilliard, Ohio passed away unexpectedly on July 24, 2023. Born in Columbus, Ohio on September 15, 1983 to Trina (Reece) and the late Joe Dunlap. Michael is survived by his mother, Trina (Dan) Smith, brother John Dunlap, sisters Brittiny (Dusty) Lenz, Janielle Dunlap, niece Addilyn, nephew Grayden, Aunt Tannia Bond, Uncle Mark Reece, plus other extended relatives and loved ones. He is preceded in death by his father, Joe Dunlap and brother, Joseph Dunlap.

Growing up, Michael played numerous sports but enjoyed Karate, Football, and Baseball the most. He carried on his family’s musical heritage by playing the piano and flute. He found his passion for singing in various choirs. Michael graduated from Worthington Kilbourne High School in 2002 where he varsity lettered in Wrestling, Cross Country, and Track and Field for Pole Vault.

Michael then attended Elon University where he earned a bachelors in Psychology in 2006. Known fondly across campus as Doc, Michael was a proud member of the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, sang in Twisted Measure, a co-ed a cappella choir, and studied abroad in Eastern Europe. He was a member of the Student Government Association, and Orientation Leader and part of the Resident Student Association.

After college, Michael joined the U.S. Army where he honorably served from 2006 to 2010. He is a recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Expert Infantry Badge, among others. He received multiple medals for his service and deployment to Iraq during Operation Iraqi freedom.

After he left the Army, Michael attended Sofia University where he earned a Masters degree in Psychology in 2013. He had planned to one day return to school to complete his doctoral degree.

Michael’s professional career was largely spent working in Sales spanning across the continent from California, to Colorado, and returning to Ohio. He truly enjoyed working with other sales people and mentoring them.

Being the jack of all trades he was, Michael also attended Bartending school.

Michael was a loyal OSU Buckeyes fan, who also enjoyed studying philosophy, politics, and religions. He never shied away from a deep intellectual discussion and welcomed any 2am chats on those topics.

To friends and family Michael was light and happiness with a kind heart and endless energy; rich gifts he gave freely to all who shared his presence.

He was always the life of the party who could bring laughter to any situation. He loved traveling, music festivals, and any reason to spend time with his friends. He loved his family deeply and told them so daily.

The world is a darker place without his love and laughter and we will forever mourn his loss. How thankful we are for the time and memories.

Family will receive visitors from 4:00p to 6:00p Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at Tidd Funeral Home, 5265 Norwich St, Hilliard, OH 43026. A brief service will be held at 6:00p. A private family interment will occur at a later date at Walnut Grove Cemetery, 5561 Milton Ave, Worthington, OH 43085.