Timothy James Dunn, age 71, passed away peacefully in Boulder, Colorado, on June 26, 2026.

Born on October 8, 1954, to John Edwin Dunn and Nancy Jean Favorite, Tim grew up in Minnesota and graduated from Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School before attending the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. His love of learning eventually led him abroad, where he earned a Certificate in French from the Sorbonne in Paris, France.

Tim built a long career as a commodities trader, earning a reputation not only for his remarkable talent but also for his generosity in mentoring young traders entering the profession.  His entrepreneurial spirit also led him into several successful ventures, including restaurant ownership, wine importing, and residential home building. He remained actively engaged in the work he loved until shortly before his passing, a testament to his enduring passion, curiosity, and work ethic.

While his professional accomplishments were impressive, those who knew Tim will remember him most for the way he lived. He possessed a quick wit, an infectious sense of humor, and an unwavering optimism that inspired everyone around him. Even during life’s greatest challenges, Tim believed tomorrow held new opportunities and that things had a way of working themselves out. His confidence in the future became one of the greatest gifts he shared with those he loved.

Whether on a trading floor, behind the bench at a youth hockey game, or gathered around a dinner table, Tim loved teaching. He delighted in helping others grow, encouraging them to pursue excellence while never losing sight of what mattered most. He found great joy coaching youth hockey in Minnesota, where he taught not only the fundamentals of the game but also perseverance, sportsmanship, confidence, and character.

Tim embraced life wholeheartedly. He appreciated great wine, lively conversation, travel, and spending time with family and friends. One of his greatest passions was horse racing. On any given Saturday or Sunday, he could often be found with the Daily Racing Form spread out before him.   His passion for the sport eventually led him to become the proud owner of two racehorses, an experience that brought him immense joy as he watched them compete. He jokingly referred to one of his favorite pastimes as “mastering the art of doing nothing,” reminding those around him that life wasn’t measured only by achievement but also by savoring life’s simple pleasures. 

He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Michelle Dunn  (Eric Reed); his son, John Edwin Dunn II; his former spouse, Karen Dunn; his sisters, Pat Niccum (Lloyd) and Colleen Wymore (Greg); his nieces, Caity Dunn and Gina Houdek; and his nephew, Anthony Wymore; Uncle Tom Favorite and many cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Edwin Dunn and Nancy Jean Dunn, his brother, Michael Dunn and a multitude of beloved Golden Retrievers.  

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Minnesota Youth Hockey Foundation in Tim’s honor.

Tim’s legacy lives on in the countless people he mentored, encouraged, and loved. He leaves behind a life well lived, a family who adored him, and a lasting reminder to greet each day with optimism, gratitude, and the belief that the pursuit of greatness is itself one of life’s greatest joys.  Per his wishes, his ashes will be spread in his beloved city of Paris.