Michael Dunivan Obituary

In Loving Memory of Michael G. Dunivan December 18, 1952 – June 29, 2025

Michael G. Dunivan of Louisa County, Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 72 years old. Born on December 18, 1952, to Claude Dunivan and Mildred E. Dunivan, Michael was one of eleven siblings and a Louisa native who made a lasting impact on everyone he met.

Michael was a man of simplicity, humor, and heart. His corny jokes told with a straight face and a twinkle in his eye, had a way of making you laugh whether you wanted to or not. His laughter was infectious, and his love for his family ran deep. He loved telling stories, and one of his favorites was about the time one of his sisters accidentally fell out of the car. When his mother asked him how long ago it happened, Michael, with a laugh, replied, "Oh, a while ago, about two miles back." That memory, like so many of his stories, became part of the family's folklore.

A true character, Michael adored his New York Yankees, Indianapolis Colts, and professional wrestling. He also enjoyed going to the casino, listening to music, and reminiscing about his younger years playing tennis. As a truck driver, he traveled to many places, returning home with more stories and even more love for his family.

Michael met the love of his life, Shirley Dunivan, while working at a local factory in Louisa. Their bond was one of true love. Though Shirley preceded him in death, their love never faded. The Saturday before his passing, Michael asked his daughters what day it was, knowing it marked what would have been their 50th wedding anniversary.

One of his most treasured memories was a trip to Washington, D.C., where he watched the Yankees play ball. He also loved sitting at the computer, playing his favorite songs, including "Hole in the World" by The Eagles.

Michael is survived by his daughters, Melinda Dunivan and Tracey Dunivan; his brothers Jerry Dunivan and Larry Dunivan; his sisters Dianne Payne, Sue Pugh, Rene Dunivan, and Joy Mitchell; his grandchildren Isaiah Mickens, Ryhan Mickens, Celena Syrkes, Cordell Syrkes, and Desmond Syrkes; and his great-grandchildren Cameron Hines, Sebastian Mickens Corado, Camden Syrkes, Jayson Syrkes, Kaiden Syrkes, Kailani Syrkes, Karter Syrkes, Kayomi Syrkes, and Kayson Syrkes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Mildred Dunivan; his beloved wife, Shirley Dunivan; his oldest grandson, Jayson Syrkes, whom he loved dearly; his brothers Homer Dunivan, Kenneth Dunivan, and Norman Dunivan; and his sister Joan Woody.

Michael will be remembered for his infectious humor, unwavering love, and the joy he brought into every room. His legacy lives on in his family, his stories, and the laughter he leaves behind.

One of Eleven, But Truly One

In Loving Memory of Michael G. Dunivan

December 18, 1952 – June 29, 2025

One of Eleven, yet one so rare,

A gentle soul beyond compare.

In a house alive with love and noise,

He grew with strength, among the boys.

From country roads to city lights,

He carried calm through days and nights.

A quiet man with hands so kind,

A softer heart, you'd never find.

He met sweet Shirley, still so young,

And from that spark, true love was sprung.

Last Saturday would mark their gold,

Fifty years of love untold.

Though she was gone, their bond still remained,

Now reunited, free from pain.

He raised two daughters with steady grace,

Melinda, Tracey, in his embrace.

They never saw a temper rise,

Just warmth and peace behind his eyes.

A trucker's life, a winding track,

But no road kept him from coming back.

Home was his compass, love his guide,

With family always by his side.

He played his favorites on repeat,

Three songs that made his world complete.

Each lyric held a piece of him,

A quiet joy that didn't dim.

His grandkids made his spirit shine,

Great grandkids too, all part of his line.

Though one grandson had gone before,

Their bond remained forevermore.

So now we pause, we gently cry,

But know this isn't a goodbye.

It's "see you later," soft and true,

From one who gave his all to you.

One of Eleven ... but truly one,

A job well done, a race well run.

In every heart his song will stay,

Still rolling on, day after day.

So, here's to Michael, gentle and wise,

With a legacy that never dies.

Though his journey here is through,

His love lives on ... in me, in you.

Obituary coming soon...