Mr. Clare Cunningham

Clare B. Cunningham, 92, of Grand Rapids passed away on November 14, 2014. He was born on July 25, 1922 to parents Patrick and Sarah (Welch) Cunningham in Hubbardston, Michigan. Clare attended St. John the Baptist Catholic School in Hubbardston and graduated in 1940. He received a Business Degree in Lansing. Clare served in World War II as a member of the 36th Division of the Army in the African Campaign and the Italian Invasion. He was the recipient of two Purple Hearts, one Bronze Star, two Presidential Unit Citations and an Infantry Combat Badge. Clare shared some of his experiences in the war with author Matthew Parker and is quoted in his book, Monte Cassino: The Hardest Fought Battle of WWII. Clare lived and worked in Grand Rapids since 1948 but kept close ties to his family and friends in his hometown of Hubbardston. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Hubbardston and the Catholic Information Center in Grand Rapids. He was very proud of his Irish Heritage and has been a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians since 1964 as well as a member of the Irish Heritage Society. He was a member of and served as past post commander for the Hubbardston American Legion. He belonged to the Knights of Columbus as well as several other charitable organizations. Clare was predeceased by his parents and brothers, Elmer Cunningham sister in law Jean (Ward) Cunningham, Albert Cunningham and sister-in-law Billie (Herald) Cunningham. He is survived by 13 nieces and nephews: Rick (Barb) Cunningham, Mike Cunningham, Tim Cunningham, Julie Cunningham, Denny Cunningham, Bill (Barb Blanchard) Cunningham, Lori (Randy Riley) Cunningham, Sharon (Kevin) Van Ett, Nancy (Dave) Smith, Carol (Randy) Hoppes, Ken (Linda) Cunningham, David (Denise) Cunningham and Gary Cunningham and their families. The family will receive visitors Monday at the Arsulowicz Brothers Mortuary, 585 Stocking Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 PM with the Rosary prayed at 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, 11:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Catholic church in Hubbardston, Michigan. He will repose in church one hour prior to the Mass. Interment will be in the St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Hubbardston.

Tributes

Mr. Clare Cunningham

July 25, 1922 - November 14, 2014