Montana receives $3 million gift from Dunn Family

Montana Athletics has received a $3 million dollar gift from the estate of Gary J. Dunn by his widow, Judy Rigler-Dunn, that will support Grizzly softball, Lady Griz basketball, and Montana football.

Gary Dunn, a Helena native and longtime Griz fan, passed away last March at the age of 74. The ultimate Grizzly fan, Dunn started attending Griz and Lady Griz basketball games in the 70s. He became a proud supporter of Griz football as well, joining a tailgate of good friends that has continued for over 40 years.

He traveled to Missoula from Helena for every football game and didn't miss any of Montana's eight National Championship appearances as a fan.

In addition to supporting the Grizzlies at games, Dunn generously gave to the athletic department. He was a member of the Helena GSA Chapter, the Hoop Club, QB Club, and Diamond Club at Montana.

He and his wife Judy spent 18 years together with countless Montana sporting events included in their shared memories. Gary was a 31-year volunteer coach for Helena Capital softball and an enthusiastic advocate for women's sports. Judy said that is why he choose to support the women's basketball and softball teams.

"He hoped his donations to Lady Griz basketball and Griz softball would help those teams in a meaningful way," Judy said. "And since he was also a devoted Griz football fan, he wanted to contribute to the continued success of the football program."

The gift will be used to assist all three programs in the area of greatest need. The most visible use of the gift to the public will be at Grizzly Softball Field where it will be used to make permanent stadium upgrades.

"This gift will be transformational for our program and the gameday experience for Grizzly softball fans," head softball coach Stef Ewing said. "Gifts like this don't just impact facilities or resources; they impact people. They fuel our culture, empower our athletes and create opportunities that will shape lives after softball. Griz softball is forever grateful."

The gift will also benefit the football program under new head coach Bobby Kennedy.

"Judy and Gary Dunn have been generous supporters of the University, Athletics Department, and of Montana football," Kennedy said. "They are making the experience of our student athletes, coaches, and support staff much better with their gift to Griz Athletics. I would have loved to get to know Gary, but his memory will live on through Judy, family, friends, and through Griz Athletics.

"In my new role as Head Football Coach, Judy has been gracious and kind. She has become a dear friend and no words can express my sincere thanks. The University and Griz Athletics will forever be thankful to the Dunn Family. Up With Montana!"

Head Coach of the Lady Griz, Nate Harris, also commented on the significant impact that the Dunns have had on the program.

"The support that Gary and Judy Dunn have given to our program has meant the world and we are so grateful for this gift. This will have a huge impact on our student-athletes and is another example of what makes the University of Montana such a special place."

The significant gift will be transformational for Montana Athletics and will improve the student-athletes experience of countless current and future Grizzlies along with fans of the program.

"Gary could be described as smart, humble, kind, and fun-loving," Judy said. "He was proud to be able to leave money to UM Athletics, Carroll College Athletics, and the Helena Area Youth Sports Foundation. He will be remembered as a loyal Grizzly fan and a genuinely great guy; he will be truly missed. Go Griz!"

University of Montana Athletics

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