James Joel Cunningham

James Joel Cunningham, 68, of Decatur, Alabama, and formerly of Mansfield, died Wednesday, July 5, 2017 at the Decatur Alabama Hospital. Born July 11, 1948 in Altoona, Pennsylvania, son of James J. Cunningham and Margaret (Moughemer) Cunningham. He was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Myra (Heilers) Cunningham of Decatur, Alabama; his children, Jennifer L. Cunningham of West New York, New Jersey, Jamie A. Cunningham of Columbus, Ohio, James "Mychael" and his wife Kelly Cunningham of Hermosa Beach, California and Sean A. Cunningham of Columbus, Ohio.

As a young boy Jim came to Mansfield with his parents from Pennsylvania. He graduated from Mansfield Malabar High School in 1966, and received his Associates Degree from North Central Technical College in Mansfield. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Cleveland State University.

Jim began his career in various professional engineering and construction positions within the telecommunications industry. He transitioned to the cable television industry, where he became an accomplished, well-respected, executive leader. Jim was a visionary and trail-blazer, who displayed abundant energy and the proven ability to apply complex technical concepts in demanding and fast-paced market environments. One of many proud moments occurred at the beginning of the internet era, when Jim developed internet services that he designed specifically for educational institutions. As Jim transitioned into retirement he started his own company, providing telecommunications management and consulting, focusing on troubled communications companies.

Jim enjoyed collecting cars, especially Corvettes, model railroading and sailing. He enjoyed keeping in touch with his friends and former colleagues. He also enjoyed coaching and mentoring youth. He and his wife started the Hockessin Soccer Club in Delaware. As an avid sports fan, Jim enjoyed golfing, baseball, basketball and most any sport. His favorite sports teams were the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Yankees and Ohio State Buckeyes.

Friends may visit from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 12, 2017 at Wappner Funeral Home, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road, Ontario. Funeral services, including mass, will be celebrated by Father Eric Culler at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 13, 2017 at the Resurrection Parish, 2600 Lexington Avenue, Mansfield. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Memorial Park.