Peter J. "Jim" Cunningham

Jim Cunningham, 85, passed away peacefully Saturday, August 6, 2011, with his loving family by his side. He was born June 11, 1926, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Pete and Mary Cunningham. He grew up on the south side of Des Moines and graduated from Lincoln High School. He majored in education and music at Drake University and also received his Masters in Administration. After graduating, Jim taught in Mount Ayr and St. Charles. He later returned to Des Moines, where he worked as a school administrator for the Des Moines Public Schools until his retirement in 1990.

Jim was a very hard worker who always kept busy. He was very devoted to his family and stressed the importance of education to his children. He was always very organized, punctual, and dressed impeccably. Jim loved life and had a passion for music, especially playing the piano. He loved playing jazz piano, beginning in local bars when he was in high school. Later he played for family, friends, school functions and Golden K Kiwanis, entertaining all who listened. He will be remembered for his Christmas cookies and breads, which he would deliver to all his family members.

Jim is survived by his children, Tom (Kathy) Cunningham, Mary (Don) Kleinschmit, Dave (Janice) Cunningham, Bill (Cindy) Cunningham, and Carol (Paul) Johnson; grandchildren, Erin Thompson, Dan Cunningham, Keri and Jon Kleinschmit, Brendan, Alyssa, and Patrick Cunningham, Samantha and Kim Cunningham, Will and Reid Johnson; and sister, Marilyn Immel.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Pat, and brothers, Art and Joe Cunningham.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 10, 2011, at St. Ambrose Cathedral, 607 High Street in Des Moines, with burial at Glendale Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by a rosary service Tuesday at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be made to Golden K Kiwanis, 3919 Hillcrest Drive, Des Moines, IA 50310.

www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

Print