Cunningham, James S.

James S. Cunningham, 86, of Marion, passed away Saturday, Feb. 2, 2013, at St. Luke's Hospital, Cedar Rapids. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 5, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home in Cedar Rapids. Services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories, with Pastor Mike Morgan officiating. Burial will be at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery, Cedar Rapids.

James Stuart Cunningham was born Sept. 27, 1926, to William and Katherine Dunn Cunningham in Coggon, Iowa. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1943 and served during World War II, the Korean conflict and the Vietnam War. James retired from the Navy in 1966. He was united in marriage to Novella Winch on June 10, 1946.

James was employed at General Mills until his retirement in 1994. He was a member of the Fleet Reserve Association for 45 years and past master of Mount Hermon Lodge.

He was an avid Oakland Raider fan all of his life. James loved shopping with his wife, mushroom hunting and spending time with the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Novella; sons, Terry (Deb Twachtman) Cunningham of Cedar Rapids, Jerry (June) Cunningham of Marion and James (Rebecca) of Matthews, N.C.; daughter-in-law, Cloanne Cunningham of Anamosa; two nieces and two nephews; 13 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

James was preceded in death by his parents; son, Bill Cunningham in July 2012; sisters, Jean Buch and Mary K. Stein; and nephew, James Jones.

Memorial donations may be directed to First United Methodist Church or charity of choice.

Please leave an online condolence for the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.

Published Feb. 3, 2013 in The Gazette