Share YOUR Memory
Kelly loved making memories
Share your memories and stories about Kelly with us.
News Stories
Hamilton, June 12, 2020
Announcing the Kelly Dunham Memorial Scholarship Award Mohawk College
To honor Kelly Dunham’s memory, the Dunham family has generously created student awards at Mohawk College and McMaster university. These endowed awards will provide financial support to female students in varsity basketball, a sport near and dear to Kelly’s heart. The Dunham family, in partnership with Mohawk College, invites you to continue Kelly’s impact through a donation to her award.
“Kelly was an incredible wife and mother to our two teenage children, Mitchell and Ally,” said Doug. “She was also a treasured colleague, friend and coach who is missed by many. Everyone who knew Kelly was completely blindsided by this terrible, sudden and completely unexpected loss. My family takes comfort in knowing that these funds will help keep Kelly’s memory alive. Through these funds, Kelly can continue having an impact on varsity athletes for years to come.”
In support of the Dunham family’s commemorative award, and as an incentive to potential donors, Mohawk College has committed to doubling the total value of the scholarship fund once it reaches $25,000 – creating a $50,000 legacy fund for this award.
Read the full story
By Lise Diebel,
June 12, 2020
Kelly Dunham coached women’s basketball at McMaster University and Mohawk College for many years where she inspired hundreds of young athletes to live their best lives on and off the court.
Faculty, staff and students at both institutions were heartbroken to learn that Kelly passed away on May 24, shortly after receiving a cancer diagnosis. In her memory – and to carry on her passion for supporting varsity athletes – both institutions have created memorial funds in her honour. The funds will support female athletes playing varsity basketball for the McMaster Marauders and Mohawk Mountaineers.
“Kelly was passionate about coaching and mentoring young female athletes and helping them reach their full potential through varsity basketball,” said Marauders women’s basketball head coach Theresa Burns, who worked closely with Kelly and was a good friend.
“The memorial funds align beautifully with Kelly’s commitment to helping players excel. I can’t think of a more fitting tribute.”
Read the full story
By Scott Radley, Spectator Columnist
May 26, 2020
Most people take some time off after hip surgery. Especially when it’s their fourth. Correction: Everyone in that position takes time off.
Everyone except her.
Just days after doctors sliced her open, burrowed around to repair the joint and put her back together a few years ago, there was Kelly Dunham back coaching basketball with the help of a walker. And not long after that, patrolling the sidelines of the Mohawk Mountaineers women’s team thanks to the help of a cane.
This wasn’t exactly out of character. Two years before, she’d coached a Mohawk game just three weeks after giving birth, suggesting an uncommon passion for the game and a rare relentlessness.
“I think that would be a terrific word for her,” says current Mohawk women’s head coach, Kevin Duffy. “Relentless.”
Read the full story