Obituary of Lawrence John Cunningham

Cunningham, Lawrence “Larry” 1927-2016 With deep love and much sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Lawrence (Larry) Cunningham on April 2nd, 2016 at the age of 89, surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of Norma Cunningham and loving father of Susan (Darrell) Chambers, Cheryl Schram, Michael (Mary Kay) Griffin, Pat (Darlene) Griffin, Rob (Carol-Ann) Griffin, Dennis (Arden) Griffin and daughter-in-law, Sera Griffin. Adored Papa of Sandra Bernard, Stacey (Ryan) te Boekhorst, Jennifer (Jay) Fleming, Justine (Michael) Pernal, Trevor (Lindsay) Griffin, Kyle (Amy) Griffin, Breanne Griffin, Ryan (Alex) Griffin, Brad (Amber) Griffin, Melissa Griffin, Michael Griffin, Amanda Griffin (Kevin), Aric Griffin and Matthew Griffin (Jennifer). He was a proud Great-Papa to 17 great-grand children. Predeceased by his first wife, Joan Cunningham, daughter Sandra Cunningham, son Richard Griffin and sister Patricia Kramer. Survived by his step-sister and step-brother, Shirley Federkow and Ken Herman. Larry was an avid lacrosse player and won the 1947 Minto Cup and was a longtime member of the Old Timers Lacrosse Association. He was a well-respected referee for Niagara District High schools and University levels. Larry was a longtime, active member and usher at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church. He was an employee of Cunningham Foundry for 49 years before his retirement. In retirement, Larry enjoyed volunteering at the St. Catharine's Museum. He was a kind-hearted, loving, witty person who will be forever missed. The valuable life lessons that he taught his family will carry on through his legacy. Special thanks to Tabor Manor's Long-Term Care, 1st Floor staff, especially nurse Sydonnie, RPN LaToya, PSW Angela, RPN Karen and Dr. Elaine O'Reilly as well as Dr. J. Child, St. Elizabeth nurse Jennifer and Paramed PSW Angela. Larry's family will receive family and friends at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton Street, on Tuesday, April 5th from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. with Vigil Prayers at 3:30 p.m. A Funeral Liturgy will be held at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church, 31 Chestnut St. East, on Wednesday, April 6th at 10am. A Rite of Committal will follow Mass at Victoria Lawn Cemetery. In memory of Larry and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Alzheimer's Society of Niagara Region and The Canadian Cancer Society.