William A Dunn PhD

DUNN, PhD, William A., Founder of DUNN CAPITAL and the DUNN FOUNDATION, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025, at the age of 90. His wife, Rebecca, was at his side. Bill Dunn led a life of innovation, entrepreneurship, and service.

A pioneer in the development and trading of technical, computer-based models for futures portfolios, William A. “Bill” Dunn remains a legend among futures traders for his analysis of market trends and a superstar in the world of free market philanthropy. With a doctorate in theoretical physics and a professional career built on mathematical analysis, Bill’s intellect was formidable. Yet, within seconds of meeting him, Bill put all at ease. His famous smile warmed any room he was in, and he immediately made connections with everyone as he truly cared about others. A fly fisherman, sailboat racer, Marine, cigar aficionado, business executive, world traveler, and philanthropist, Bill Dunn was the man who rode the bucking bronco to life’s fullest and made it look easy.

As a classical liberal, Bill dedicated his life to advancing his core belief in the principles of individual liberty, free enterprise, and limited government. He was a longtime supporter and board member of free market policy organizations such as Reason Foundation, Cato Institute, Competitive Enterprise Institute, Institute for Justice, the Property and Environment Research Center and others. His thoughtful perspective has inspired many and helped lay the intellectual groundwork necessary for a free society.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Rebecca Freeman Walter Dunn; his daughters Elizabeth Suzanne Dunn, Chris Ellen Dunn-Valencia (Carlos), and Virginia Louise Kerr (Andrew); and his daughter-in-law Maria Vallecillo-Dunn, widow of his late son Daniel Earl Dunn.

He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren: Jessica Dunn Bohner, Sean Lockhart Bahner, Maddy Rose Valencia Kennedy, Marco Dunn Valencia, Giselle Maria Dunn, Gabriela Daniela Dunn, Sebastian James Kerr, Hamish William Kerr, Clara Louise Kerr, and Felix Trevor Kerr.

He was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Brooks Stephen Bahner, Bryson Randall Bahner, Clara Corinne Bahner, Bear Charles Kennedy, and Rio Francis Kennedy.

Bill also shared a close relationship with his stepson, Alexander James Walter.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill’s memory to Life-Path Hospice through the Chapters Health Foundation. A celebration of life will be held in the fall to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of William A. Dunn.