Neil Thomas Dunn

Neil Thomas Dunn, age 46 of Cottage Grove, passed away on June 5, 2026. Neil was born to Bill and Carol (Hall) Dunn on June 4, 1980 at Methodist Hospital in Rochester. He grew up in Plainview, MN. In 1999 he graduated from Plainview High School and earned his associate’s degree at Rochester Community College. At St. Cloud State he majored in theater technology and finished there in 2002, where he graduated with his bachelor’s degree. Neil began his work life as a theater technician in St. Cloud, but eventually found his niche working with Ford dealerships in Rochester and Inver Grove Heights. In 2017 Neil married the love of his life, Kathryn “Katie” Marie Burce-Nielsen. Neil enjoyed many of life's simple pleasures and passions. He was an avid Lego enthusiast who loved building and creating, and he was a devoted fan of the Star Wars universe, always appreciating its stories, characters, and adventures. Neil also found joy in reading, often immersing himself in books that sparked his imagination and curiosity.Among the things he cherished most were his beloved dogs—his treasured "fur babies"—Sampson, Dolly, and Velma. They brought him endless companionship, comfort, and happiness, and he loved them as members of the family.Above all, Neil valued time spent with those he loved. Whether gathering for holidays, sharing meals, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying everyday moments together, he treasured the relationships he had with his family. His warmth, loyalty, and love for family were at the heart of who he was, and the memories created together will be cherished for years to come.Neil is preceded in death by his grandparents; Godmother, Darlene Ihrke; and uncle, Curt Dunn. He is survived by his wife; parents; brothers, Richard (April Mazzara) and Anthony; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mary & Buzz Burce; brother-in-law, Brian (Jamie) Burce; nieces, Ambrielle Mazzara and Sophia Burce; nephews, Anthony Mazzara, William Dunn, Jonas Dunn, and Frederick Burce; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who enjoyed his sense of humor. Memorial Service at 12:00pm on Wed., June 17, 2026, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St., Hastings, with a visitation beginning at 10:00am and a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Animal Humane Society or a community food shelf of the donor’s choice. Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel www.starksonfamily.com