Former Dallas police chief David Kunkle laid to rest

DALLAS - Friends and family gathered Wednesday to bid farewell to former Dallas police chief David Kunkle.

Kunkle died last week at the age of 72 after a long battle with a form of dementia.

The police honors during the funeral were provided by the Dallas Police Department, as well as the Grand Prairie and Arlington departments.

During his career, Kunkle served as chief of police for all three cities and is credited with forming the Arlington Police Honor Guard Team.

Dallas Police Chief David Kunkle

His wife began the service sharing about his kindness and their love for each other.

"We were thankful for every day we had together and we both recognized how truly lucky we were to have a once-in-a-lifetime love built on deep respect and mutual adoration and admiration," Sarah Dodd said.

Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said Kunkle's service saved lives and set a new standard for police.

Former Dallas police chief David Brown was Kunkle’s second in command. 

"Has mentored me throughout my career. Great man, husband, father, great leader, and he will be sorely missed," Brown said. "Very forward thinking, progressive, very good people person. Not just in the community, in the department."

Those who spoke of Kunkle said he was the right police chief at the right time in Dallas. 

Kunkle was known for owning up to the mistakes the department made and helped bridge the gap between the community and police department.

Michael Lee helped start a DPD scholarship program with Kunkle. 

"I told him we need a good relationship with the citizens of Dallas and business community with law enforcement," Lee said.

Dodd said he was always the most brilliant person in the room and wanted to make sure everyone was treated with respect. 

"After our first dinner together, he called me and said if we never spend time together again, I want you to know you have changed my life. Well my love, it is you who changed my life, I would not trade a single day," she said.