Paul D. Cunningham

Paul David Cunningham, formerly of Rushmore Avenue, Mamaroneck, NY, Chappaqua, NY, Somers, NY, and most recently New Milford, CT passed away Friday, March 23rd surrounded by his loving family at his bedside.

Paul was born October 18, 1937 to Leona and William Cunningham. He attended Most Holy Trinity Grammar School, Archbishop Stepinac High School, Mamaroneck High School (where he starred in baseball, basketball and football and was honored by being named “All County” for both football and basketball), Eastern Military Academy,  Iowa University and Hillsdale College in Michigan. Paul married Cecilia Penn Cunningham in 1960, and they had five children.

Paul’s professional career began as a restauranteur at Cunningham’s Fireside Tavern in Mamaroneck, and from there he became involved in the soft drink industry. He began on the route trucks and worked his way to executive positions with Joyce Seven-Up, and Royal Crown Cola, and eventually became Vice President of Sales at The Coca Cola Bottling Company of New York.  During those years he continued to stay involved in the restaurant business, with Chaucers in Larchmont, NY, and in later years he was a partner in three Westchester County restaurants (Gus’ Franklin Park Restaurant in Harrison, and Carl’s Restaurant and The Larchmont Tavern in Larchmont), as well as Gus’ Restaurant in Norwalk, CT.  He personally served as owner/operator in both Gus’ in Norwalk and The Larchmont Tavern. Most recently, during his retirement years, he drove for Leros Point to Point.

Paul was predeceased by his aforementioned parents Leona and William and his four elder siblings, William Cunningham, Jr., Joan Cunningham Carmer, Barbara Cunningham Leichtweis and Bruce Cunningham.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Cecilia and children Bonnie, Jo Anne (Justin) Costello, Paul, Jr. (Carolyn), Meg, and Bill Cunningham (Samantha), grandchildren Brendan Cunningham, Katie Cunningham, Clare Costello and Kevin Costello, cousin Dorothy “Dottie” Cunningham, beloved nieces and nephews, many of whom regarded him as a second father, benefactor and confidant, and his many grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

“PC” was truly adored by all that were privileged to know him and will be remembered as a generous, kind, loving family member, a fiercely loyal friend, an extraordinary athlete, avid golfer, and a gifted storyteller who captivated his audiences. 

A celebration of this amazing life will be held on Saturday, May 19th at Church of the Resurrection in Rye, NY at 10:00 a.m. To send a condolence and light a candle in his memory please visit www.danburymemorial.com 

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