Owner of LeMont Restaurant & CentiMark founder, Ed Dunlap dies at 83; local officials remember him

PITTSBURGH — Ed Dunlap, the owner of Pittsburgh’s LeMont Restaurant and founder of CentiMark died at 83 years old on July 23.

Several city officials have come forward to comment on Dunlap’s death and impact on the city.

“Edward B. Dunlap, Jr., or as most knew him, Mr. D, leaves behind a legacy of excellence in business and his philanthropic endeavors. Known throughout the Pittsburgh community as an innovator, leader, and friend, Mr. D will truly be missed. May his memory be a blessing for all who knew and loved him,” said mayor Ed Gainey.

Pittsburgh City Council President Theresa Kail Smith shared how she will appreciate the impact that Dunlap left in the area through generosity and charity.

“Mr. D was a truly generous and humble man. He helped struggling people across the country, abroad, and locally while at the same time never wanting to take credit for the incredible charitable work that the Dunlap family did. Ed never forgot about people locally, including donations to help reopen the historic Ream swimming pool and rec center that serves Mt. Washington and Duquesne Heights. My heart goes out to Mrs. Dunlap and the Dunlap family,” said Smith.

Smith was not the only person to remember Dunlap for his generosity. State Senator Wayne Fontana also mentioned Dunlap’s passion for helping others.

“Ed was a generous man who was approachable and easy to talk to. He cared deeply about others and always tried helping those in need. He will be deeply missed,” said Fontana.

City Councilor Anthony Coghill mentioned his admiration of Dunlap’s rise to success over the course of his life.

“Ed Dunlap was among the most generous men I have ever met. I’ve always appreciated that Ed came from humble roots, rose to such great heights, and then was able to give so much back to the communities he came from,” said Coghill.

County Councilor Bob Palmosina shared a similar fascination with Dunlap’s work ethic and success.

“Mr. and Mrs. Dunlap have been pillars of our community. From humble beginnings he was a self-made man whose businesses grew to the point where he became one of the most successful men of our era. Mr. Dunlap poured money and resources into organizations that made a real difference to our community and the youth of our neighborhoods. A devout Catholic, the most important thing to Ed was his family and his faith,” said Palmosina.

Some remember Dunlap as a motivator and inspiration.

“Ed was a quiet guy who made a huge impact. He was a neighbor who challenged me to be a better elected official but more importantly a better person. I strive to measure up to the values and standard he set for himself,” said state representative Dan Deasy.

While many remember Dunlap for a commitment to the city, a strong work ethic and charity, others remember him as a friend first and foremost.

“Mr. Dunlap was a good friend and an even better man. He used the LeMont as the charitable arm of his enterprise to support the nonprofits and political causes he believed in. The nonprofit community was immensely helped through his kindness and generosity,” said County Treasurer John Weinstein.

Dunlap died after a long fight with an illness.

Democratic Committeeperson Rob Gigliotti said, “I was honored to know him and it was a pleasure to be around him. Being educated by Mr. Dunlap was the honor of my life. He will be missed.”

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