Dennis J. Cunningham

Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, Friend and Respected Leader

Dennis J. Cunningham, a proud native of Queens, New York, passed away on May 10, 2025, in Hicksville, NY at the age of 82. Raised in Queens, Dennis graduated from St. Pascal’s High School and served in the U.S. Army. He went on to earn advanced degrees from John Jay College and St. John’s University. He was also a graduate of the esteemed FBI Academy, and a Columbia University School of Business PMI graduate.

Throughout his life he lent his expertise and knowledge to various organizations, reflecting his lifelong commitment to public service, leadership, and integrity.

Dennis began his career with the New York Police Department, rising through the ranks with honor and distinction. After 27 years of dedicated service, he retired as Deputy Inspector in 1993 to begin a second impactful chapter as Executive Vice President of Security for the National Hockey League for 28 years.

His visionary work in sport safety and large-event management earned him the Distinguished Leadership Award for Sports and Safety, recognizing his lasting contributions and thoughtful leadership in the field.

His career at the NHL afforded the opportunity for him and his wife to travel the world.

Dennis lived a life rich in purpose, humility, and joy. He was active in community theatre, delighting local audiences in roles such as the butler in Annie.

He had a deep love for the outdoors— walking the Jones Beach boardwalk and often finding peace and reflection along the shores of Florida’s beaches, his porch in North Carolina or by his fire pit at home.

He was dedicated to fitness, an avid skier, boater, and fisherman, especially enjoying fluke fishing with his family out of Captree.

A devoted animal lover, Dennis cared deeply for all creatures, especially his beloved birds Petey, Sam, and Buddy, his cat Baby, and dog Sandy, who brought him much joy and companionship.

At home, Dennis was the soul of every gathering. His contagious laughter during family game nights—playing Pictionary, UNO, or Spoons—created some of the family’s most joyful memories.

He also had an entrepreneurial spirit, running side ventures like “Denny’s Screen Repair,” and teaching his children through example the values of hard work, education, creativity, and perseverance.

Most importantly, Dennis instilled in his family a powerful sense of work ethic and a belief in doing good for the greater good. His life was a masterclass in integrity, leadership, and quiet generosity.

He was a loyal friend to so many. He Is survived by his beloved wife and unwavering partner, Brigitta Cunningham. He was recently predeceased by his loving son Michael Cunningham. He was a dedicated father to his daughter Beth Skinner (Kevin) of Dennis Port, MA; daughter Maureen Nelson (Michael) of Westborough, MA; daughter-in-law Cheryl Cunningham of Canton, MA; son Joseph Burnside (Laurie) of Sayville, NY, and daughter Marjorie Burnside of St James, NC. He also leaves behind cherished grandchildren Brianna Coughlan (Tom), Gregory Burnside (Stefanie), Chelsea Burnside, Ryan Somerville (Erica), Dylan and Emma Cunningham, Samantha and Tyler Nelson along with great-grandchildren Mckenna, Joseph and Patrick Coughlan.

A visitation for Dennis will be held Tuesday, May 20, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM & 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Homes, 125 W Old Country Road, Hicksville, NY 11801. A funeral mass will occur Wednesday, May 21, 2025 11:15 AM at St. Ignatius Loyola Parish, 129 S Broadway, Hicksville, NY 11801. A committal service will follow at Calverton National Cemetery, Wading River, NY 11792.

In Lieu of Flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of Dennis to one of the organizations he supported. Please see Links Below.