Francis` Eugene Cunningham

February 9, 1932 - May 22, 2021

Francis Eugene Cunningham, age 89, passed away peacefully on Saturday May 22, 2021 at home, surrounded by loved ones. Gene, as he was known by, was born February 9, 1932 in Kansas City, MO and lived in the KC area most of his life. He left Glennon High School early to join the United States Navy, where he served from 1949-1953. He married Ellena Huffaker and had 3 daughters, Deborah Jean Cunningham, Theresa Denise (Cunningham) Sadasivan (married to Raj Sadasivan), and Mary Diane (Cunningham) Fletcher (married to John Fletcher). Gene leaves behind 6 grandchildren: Jesse Northcutt, Tracee Gulley, Jacob Northcutt, Sean Fletcher, Annie Kennedy and Shelby Fletcher; and 7 great-grandchildren: Russell Northcutt, Ian Northcutt, Dylan Northcutt, Neisan Kennedy, Ashton Northcutt, Matilda Kennedy and Pearl Fletcher. His eyes lit up any time they came to visit — they were truly the loves of his life. No amount of thank you's is enough when we thank Raj for the wonderful care he gave to Gene in the last year. Gene worked as a truck driver all his life, first for AAA Linen, and then for Wagner Cartage, and for a short time Ryder. After retirement, he went into the antiques business with his wife, Irene, where he traveled all over the country buying and selling fine antiques. He wintered in Sarasota, Florida for several years, and we used to visit him often down there. He walked the 5-mile stretch of beach every single day. Gene is preceded in death by his mother, Marguerite Burke, and his father, Joseph Kessler. Gene was a fun-loving Irishman who never met a stranger. He will be truly missed. There will be a Celebration of Gene's Life this summer and all those who knew and loved him will be invited to share in the story of his life. We know there are many good stories out there! Time and place will be announced on social media.