Robert DaCosta Dunnagan

Robert DeCosta Dunnagan of Livingston, Montana died at home surrounded by family members and his grandchildren playing a violin and guitar in his honor. He was 87 years old.

Bob, or known by family as “Chief” was born on March 4, 1937 in St. Louis Missouri. In his youth he was an avid climber, cross country skier and avid outdoorsman. He was an incident commander 2 and was called upon to lead many large wildfires. He enjoyed sailing and spending time on any river. But, fly fishing and spending time with family and friends was always precious to him.

He graduated from University of Missouri with a degree in Animal Husbandry. After a short period in the U.S. Army he began some seasonal work in the National Park Service in The Tetons and worked this into a full career with the National Park Service. He met his wife Nancy Karen Bjorn at Jenny Lake in the Tetons. They were married the following year in Reno in April of 1959. They lived in 16 different parks over his career. His job entailed patrol and he was often called upon to help with climbing rescues or to help stranded individuals. These included beautiful places such as Canyonlands, Fire Island, Banff (in Canada) and Yosemite National Park. He retired while working at Mt. Rainier National Park in 1992.

As life took Robert on many adventures he acquired a love of sailing, traveling, hiking, woodworking and of course more fly fishing. He traveled all over the world with friends and family. He loved asking questions that most people would not give much thought. He went places most would not or “should not.” He always wanted to learn and improve. His woodshop was filled with stools, lamps, shelves and furniture. He loved working with unique wood and giving his creations away. He enjoyed taking the path less traveled.

He is survived by his children Timothy Dunnagan, Thomas Dunnagan, and Susan Gibbs Dunnagan. His Grandchildren,  Tyler Hinricks, Bridger Dunnagan, Brooke Dunnagan, Garrett Gibbs, Macy Goodwin and Keegan Gibbs. His Great Grandchildren include Hudson Gibbs, Nikos and Dimos Hinricks. His Sister,  Frandee Johnson and her three daughters Betsy, Hindy and Laura. He is predeceased by his wife Nancy Bjorn Dunnagan.

His family will have a private ceremony, but Chief (Bob) would encourage you to spend time outdoors enjoying life to the fullest. Enjoy fishing trips with friends, go skiing and look at the beautiful mountains, see a new state but be conscious of our world. To all his fishing buddies, friends and family, thank you for your support and being a huge part of his life. Always remember,  “ Not all who wander are lost.”