Mansel "Richard" Cunningham

He was born on September 8, 1926 to Delma Cunningham and Leitha Hendershot Cunningham in Cornwallis, West Virginia. Richard came to this area from Staten Island, New York 58 years ago. He was a contractor /builder, M.R. Cunningham Home Builder. He was a member of the American Legion # 40/8 of Staten Island, New York, Masonic Lodge A&FM #115Past Master, Scottish Rite Past President Valley of Fort Myers, Araba Shrine of Fort Myers, Past Master President, District II, Deputy-Demolay, Order of Demolay Cross of Honor, American Legion Post 110, Two Time Peace River Shrine Club Past President. Richard drove stock cars in the demolition derby, was a volunteer firefighter in Port Charlotte. He served in the US Navy from 1943 until 1947 on the USS Wichita and the USS Midway where he received a plank from the USS Midway he also received the Victory Medal and the Asiatic Pacific Medal. Richard was an avid golfer and got a hole in one two time's, he loved teaching his children and grandchildren how to fish.

Survivors include his loving wife of 35 years, Beverly Foster Cunningham of Punta Gorda, Florida; his children, Robbie (Lorrie) Frank, Sharon Matiska, Lori (Hank) Gerow, Shellie (Ken) Carter, Carl Frank, Charlene (Ed) Burlison, Timothy (Pastor, Julie) Frank,Chris (Shannon) Frank; 18 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Richard was loved by all who knew him.

Memorial services, Friday June 17, 2011 at 12:00 Noon at the family residence, 5785 Bronco Road, Punta Gorda, FL. Please visit the online tribute for Mansel " Richard" Cunningham at www.kays-ponger.com

Arrangements by Kays-Ponger & Useton Funeral Home Port Charlotte Chapel.