| In Memoriam Dr. Dan O. Dunavan Dr. Dan O. Dunavan, who taught at Southeast Missouri State University for 32 years, died at age 60 of esophageal cancer on July 20, 2004, less than two months after his diagnosis. Dan was a native of Pawnee Rock, KS and received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Wichita State University (Jim Sewery), his Master of Arts from DePaul University (Bob Tillis), and his D.M.A. from the University of Iowa (Thomas L. Davis). Dan served as Missouri P.A.S. chapter president for many years and attended every PASIC since its inception. While at Southeast Missouri he was the sponsor of Circle K and a faculty advisor to Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. A quiet and practical man, Dan always looked for ways to provide encouragement. Dr. Gary Miller, chairman of the music department, said Dunavan always treated people the same, with honesty and wit. "He would needle the kids, but it was always in a good way and they came to know him for that. But if a student was struggling, he would lay it on the line." Miller said Dunavan gave freely of his time to help young students learn percussion instruments, holding numerous workshops at area middle schools and high schools. On October 16, the Golden Eagles Marching Band dedicated their marching band show to Dan. All band members wore black armbands and a snare drum was placed on the field with Dan's initials. "He was amazing," said Megan Burgess, a current drumline member and percussion student. "He cared so much about people. No one could ever replace him. No one could ever honor him enough. He seriously put my life together. He'll be the reason I get a degree. I miss him so much." Dan is survived by his wife, Sheryl, three sons, Dylan, Cary, and Jesse, two brothers and two granddaughters. Memorial contributions may be made to Daniel O. Dunavan Percussion Scholarship at Southeast University in Cape Giraurdeau, MO, or Hope Lodge (American Cancer Society), 4215 Lindell Avenue, St. Louis, Mo., 63108. --John S. Beckford with information from the SEMO Arrow (Shandi Greve) and Southeast Missourian (Jamie Wachter)
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