Patrick Ian Dunlap, 42, of Jefferson City, passed away Friday, December 8, 2023, at Capital Region Medical Center with his wife by his side.

He was born September 10, 1981, in Moberly, Missouri, the son of James Montgomery “Monty” and Rebecca “Becky” Anne (Vanlandingham) Dunlap.

He was a 2000 graduate of Paris High School; a 2004 graduate of Northwest Missouri State University at Maryville, Missouri with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science; and received his Masters of Public Affairs in 2014 from University of Missouri-Columbia.

Ian was united in marriage on September 24, 2011, at First Christian Church in Jefferson City to Leslie Ann Waters who survives at the home.

After graduating college, Ian immediately immersed himself in the political world.  He has been the Chief of Staff for former Missouri Senator Wes Shoemyer (2007-2010) and the Deputy Director of scheduling for former Governor Jay Nixon (2011-2013).  He would later serve as the liaison between the Governor’s office and the General Assembly in his role as the Director of Legislative and Constituent Service for the Department of Corrections.  In 2015, Ian transferred to the Department of Public Safety as the Legislative Director.  Ian joined the Heartland Credit Union Association in December of 2017 and currently served as the Executive Director of the Missouri Credit Union Association under Cornerstone League.

Ian's dedication to his faith and service was unwavering. As an active member of Community Christian Church, he exemplified the virtues of compassion and selflessness. Notably, Ian held the esteemed position of Church Board Chairman and Deacon, where his leadership guided the congregation with wisdom and grace.

In addition to his religious affiliations, Ian was an active member of Meadow Lake Acres Country Club, United Sportman’s Club, and the Jefferson City Elks Lodge 513.   

Ian found great joy in outdoor pursuits, relishing in activities such as hunting, fishing, golfing, and skeet shooting. These pastimes not only allowed him to connect with nature but also provided opportunities for shared adventures with his beloved son. A true "foodie" at heart, Ian possessed a discerning palate and was always on the lookout for extraordinary culinary experiences.

However, above all else, Ian cherished his role as a devoted husband and loving father. His commitment to family knew no bounds; they were the center of his universe. Family trips held a special place in his heart, especially their memorable excursions to the picturesque landscapes of Wisconsin Dells and the magical wonders of Disney World. These journeys created treasured moments that shall forever be etched in his family’s hearts.

Ian had an old-world charm about him—an "Old-Soul" who embraced timeless values rooted in faith and family solidarity. He innately understood that these foundations formed the bedrock upon which a meaningful life could be built. Ian's legacy lives on through those who were blessed by his presence.

Survivors include his wife, Leslie Dunlap, Jefferson City; his two children, Liam Dunlap and Lanie Dunlap, of the home; his parents, Monty and Becky Dunlap, Jefferson City; mother-in-law, Nancy Waters, Jefferson City; father-in-law, Stephen Waters (Cecile Landrum); brother-in-law, Ryan (Caitlin) Waters, Jefferson City; as well as other extended family members.

Preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Jim and Darlene Dunlap and his maternal grandparents Ralph and Virginia Vanlandingham.

Visitation will be 3-7 p.m. Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at Trimble Funeral Homes – Jefferson City.

A funeral service will be held 10 a.m. Thursday at First Christian Church in Jefferson City with Reverend Craig Kirby-Grove officiating.  The service will be live streamed on the First Christian Church's Facebook page.

Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Dunlap Childrens Fund.

Services entrusted to Trimble Funeral Homes – Jefferson City.   trimblefunerals.com