John D. Cunnin

The luck of the Irish has run out for our king of Clan Cunnin. Des Cunnin has followed his pot of gold to the beginning of the rainbow.

He passed in Chemainus May 27, 2016 at home with his family by his side. Des was born in Regina on June 18, 1932 to Irish immigrants, proudly calling himself a first generation Canadian.

He leaves behind his Colleen, Shirley and five wee folk: Brad, Donna, Shawna, Mark and Betty, their spouses, Brenda, John, Lauren, Rachel and Jodan. As well, five grandchildren, Sean, Meryll, Rhys, Reid and Keith. He grew up with his elder brother and sister Jim and Pat. They blessed him with eight nieces and nephews.

Des joined the RCMP in 1951, serving 25 years as a forensic specialist when he retired as Division Representative for members in 1976. He was posted to Prince Rupert, Regina, Prince Albert, Ottawa and back to Regina, where he took a position in labour relations with the Sask. Construction Ass’n following his retirement from the force.

His well established pleasure principle convinced him and Shirley it was time to withdraw from the rat race and follow a slower pace on Vancouver Island in 1983, moving upisland from Crofton to Chemainus in 2014.

Des was a true Irish tinker who could and would fix anything that friends and neighbours brought to his workshop. During these years he was called up twice to assist Elections Canada and the UN with elections in Cambodia and later Namibia.

Desi will always be known for his charm, and his ability to tell a story. He was a generous, warm, funny, friendly man and oh so loyal.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life on:

Friday, June 3, 2016 at the Duncan Meadows Golf Club on North Road from 2 pm - 5 pm ~ Please join us and bring a story.

We are truly grateful for the medical professionals who helped us with his final journey, you know who you are, folks don’t forget Desi.

We want to offer special gratitude to the Home Care Palliative nurses who truly offer TLC.

In lieu of flowers, please consider the Kidney Foundation and try for an act of kindness when the opportunity rises.

Arrangements under the direction of First Memorial Funeral Services, Duncan, BC.