Galen James Dunkleberger, a devoted family man, passionate outdoorsman, and community volunteer, passed away at 45 on September 25, 2025, after a battle with cancer.
Galen touched many lives through his kindness, enthusiasm, and commitment to those around him.
His death is a loss for his family, friends, and the Montoursville community he loved.
Born on April 19, 1980, in the charming town of Montoursville, Pennsylvania, Galen grew up surrounded by the natural beauty that would shape his lifelong love for the outdoors.
He attended Montoursville Area High School, where he formed lasting friendships and discovered his passion for sports and nature.
Later, he pursued higher education at Susquehanna University, earning a degree that set the basis for his successful career in technology.
Galen’s adventures took him beyond Pennsylvania; he lived in New Mexico and New Jersey before returning to his hometown roots in Montoursville.
Fishing was one of Galen’s greatest joys, a hobby that began in his childhood along the banks of local rivers and lakes.
He cherished the peace of casting a line and the thrill of a good catch. This love extended to other outdoor activities, such as hiking and kayaking, which he shared with his loved ones.
Even when his daughters occasionally grumbled about early mornings or rough trails, Galen gently encouraged them, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
He married his college sweetheart, Ellen Murphy Dunkleberger, and together they built a beautiful life over the course of their 20-year marriage.
They welcomed four wonderful daughters: Adele, Gwenyth, Nora, and Violet. Galen was a hands-on father who delighted in family outings, teaching his girls the wonders of nature.
Annual trips to Cape May, New Jersey, with extended family and friends were highlights of their year, filled with beach days, laughter, and bonding.
As a member of Montoursville Presbyterian Church, Galen found spiritual strength and community support, especially during his illness.
Professionally, Galen excelled in the tech world. He started as a computer programmer and advanced to become a solutions architect at Amazon Web Services.
Though his job title evolved, he remained an engineer at heart, always tinkering and solving problems with creativity and precision.
His colleagues admired his dedication and rallied around him during his battle with cancer, offering support that meant the world to him and his family.
Galen’s Commitment to his Community was Evident in his Years of Service as a Youth Soccer Coach and AYSO Referee
Galen’s commitment to his community was evident in his years of service as a youth soccer coach and AYSO referee.
He poured his energy into mentoring young players, fostering teamwork and sportsmanship on the field.
He retired from these roles only after his cancer diagnosis, but his impact endured.
Montoursville AYSO Region 690 shared a heartfelt tribute:
Our hearts are broken! We want to honor Galen for his years of service being a coach and referee with our region! Thank you for everything you gave away so our players could have an awesome coach and great games to play!! He was always a joy to talk with and be around! He coached his girls for many years and got his daughter into being a youth referee! Galen had a big heart and we were all blessed by it! You will be deeply missed!!! Our prayers go out to his wife, daughters and family! We love you all!!
VIa Facebook
This message shows the warmth and generosity that defined Galen.
Galen is survived by his loving wife, Ellen; his daughters, Adele, Gwenyth, Nora, and Violet; his mother and stepfather; his grandparents; and many other cherished relatives and friends.
He was predeceased by his father, Steven Dunkleberger, and his grandparents, Dalton Dunkleberger, Ruth Dunkleberger, and Linda Burger.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the calling hours from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Friday, October 3, 2025, at Montoursville Presbyterian Church, located at 900 Elm Street, Montoursville, PA 17754.
A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM, officiated by Reverend David Smith. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed; further details will be announced. A private burial will follow at Montoursville Cemetery.
Instead of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Montoursville Presbyterian Church, in honor of Galen’s faith and community ties.
Galen James Dunkleberger’s life was evidence of living fully, loving deeply, and giving selflessly.
Though his time was cut short, his legacy of joy, adventure, and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew him.
