John Edward Dunahee, 78, of Eyota, Minnesota, passed away on July 22, 2024, at Seasons Hospice House after a short battle with leukemia.

John was born July 4, 1946, to Alice Schwirtz. At age 2, he was adopted by his maternal grandparents, Harvey and Ruth Dunahee, in International Falls. He spent his school years in International Falls, graduating from Falls High School in 1964.

After serving in the Air Force, John resided in Las Vegas where he piloted private planes and helicopters, escorting tourists and celebrities, as well as making air ambulance flights with premature infants. He was very involved in many aspects of aviation. After returning to Minnesota in 1998, John worked for the TSA and later Go-Rochester Direct and Rochester City Lines. He enjoyed attending aviation shows, watching wildlife, and in the afternoons watching football.

John is survived by his sister Gloria Simanovski, Winneconne, WI; brother Gary (Rosemary) Schwirtz, Plainview, MN; brother Terry; cousins Denise (Nathan) Davidson, Grand Meadow, MN, and Karen (Greg) Heath, Litchfield, MN; as well as nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, sisters Leona Abrath and Florence Holden, and brothers Arthur Holden and Leonard Holden.

There will be a private memorial service.