Robert J. "Bob" Cunningham, Jr.

Mr. Robert J. “Bob” Cunningham, Jr., age 80, of Utica, passed away on Saturday, November 14, 2009 at the Heritage Healthcare Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on March 7, 1929, Robert was the son of the late Robert J., Sr. and Beatrice “Bea” (Cutler) Cunningham. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, he served his country during the Korean Conflict stationed at Ft. Knox with a tanker squadron. On September 30, 1950 he married the former Rita T. Sbarra with whom he shared 56 years prior to her passing on April 24, 2007. Bob and Rita shared a wonderful, loving relationship together; they were the best of friends and had many good times. Bob was employed by the Griffiss Air Force Base as a civilian shop foreman in the metal fabrication department, the position from which he retired at the age of 55. Bob enjoyed the simple pleasures and pastimes of life including puttering around the house after retirement, walking his dogs through the neighborhood, fishing, boating, and mall-walking. He was a member of the Moose Lodge and the Sons of Italy Lodge #2054. He was a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Bob is survived by his sons and daughter-in-law, Robert J. “Bob” and Terri Cunningham III of Schuyler, NY, and Richard J. Cunningham of Utica; and his grandchildren, Richard Cunningham, Jr. of Utica, and Rob Cunningham IV of Schuyler. Survivors also include his cousins, and in-laws, Vincent “Butch” and Donna Sbarra of White Lake, and Louise Sbarra. He was predeceased by his in-laws, Louis Sbarra, Concetta “Jessie” and Joseph V. Maggio, and Rose and Peter Cerminaro. The family extends sincere appreciation to the staff of the Heritage Healthcare Center for all the care given to Bob. In keeping with Bob’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Wednesday morning at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Bob's honor to Stevens-Swan Humane Society; envelopes will be available at the service. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St. corner of Hammond Ave.

Robert J. "Bob" Cunningham, Jr.

March 7, 1929 - November 14, 2009