Jeanine Dunn passed on peacefully at Heritage House in the morning hours of April 18, 2024, surrounded with love and personalized attention.
She was born in Rochester, New York on Sept. 30, 1932 to Dr. Francis Robinson and his wife Anne.
At an early age, and following in her father’s footsteps, Jeannie decided to pursue a career in medicine.
After earning her Bachelor of Science from University of Rochester in 1955, and shortly thereafter passing her boards to become a Registered Nurse, Jeanine headed out of New York State to begin a new life and career in sunny Southern California.
Initially settling in Los Angeles, Jeanine easily found work in both hospital and clinical settings. Ultimately, she crossed professional paths with Robert Dunn, a young physician who specialized in the new field of cochlear implant research and treatment.
Their relationship blossomed, and in 1960 Jeanine and Robert were married in Los Angeles. On April 20, 1969, Jeanine and Robert welcomed their only child Michael Francis Dunn into the world.
Following Michael’s birth, the couple headed back East, settling in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, where career opportunity awaited both Jeanine and Robert. Jeanine worked for 15 years at Allegheny Community College as a nursing instructor, where she devoted her days to teaching and holding each of her student nurses to the highest of standards.
Tragically, in 1986, when Michael was only 17 years old, he was killed in a farming accident when the tractor on which he was riding overturned. With the loss of their child, Jeanine and Robert’s marriage began to collapse. They separated in 1987 and divorced in 1991.
On the heels of divorce, Jeanine was again ready for a lifestyle change and warmer weather. Striking out solo, she again headed out West. This time, she landed in Santa Barbara.
Jeanine made many friends in her new hometown, involving herself in a number of meaningful activities. A life-long Catholic, she became a devout parishioner at St. Raphael’s Church.
In her late 60s, Jeanine began studying martial arts. She dedicated herself fully to the study and discipline of karate, practicing and participating in many events and competitions. These efforts culminated in her attaining the rank of black belt, which was one of her proudest achievements.
An accomplished pianist and well into her 80s, Jeanine regularly invited musician friends and neighbors to her home for spirited jam sessions.
A lifelong dog lover, Jeanine was never without a loyal companion, the last of whom was Coco, a chihuahua who Jeanine doted on until his death in July 2022.
Jeanine moved from her condominium at Encina Royale to Heritage House in October 2022. There she met new friends and engaged in a variety of social activities. In addition to engaging in activities and events at Heritage House, Jeannine enjoyed regular outings and visits with a number of friends and companions.
Jeanine’s wishes were to be cremated and placed near her beloved son Michael F. Dunn in St. James Cemetery in Sewickley, PA. A private service and Catholic Mass will be held for her in the near future.
A Memorial Fund has been established in Michael’s name to benefit seminary students at St. Vincent’s Seminary in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, outside of Pittsburg.
A special thanks to the Heritage House family, Assisted Hospice, and the NODA volunteers, all who supported and embraced Jeanine as she transitioned from this life, just in time to celebrate Michael’s birthday with him in heaven.
“They that love beyond the world cannot be separated by it. Death cannot kill what never dies.” — William Penn