Darrell D. Cunningham

Darrell was born in Marshall, Illinois on October 8, 1927, the son of the late Edward and Flossie (Gaddis) Cunningham. He went on to marry the love of his life, the former Eloise Beecher on April 10, 1948 in Terre Haute. Their marriage was blessed with over 64 years. Darrell had worked as an optician and proudly served our country with the United States Army, stationed in Hot Springs, Arkansas and Colorado as a medic during the end of World War II. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, building model cars and airplanes and was even a former golden glove boxer in his younger years. Darrell was a wonderful family man, who showed unconditional love to his entire family. His wonderful personality, strong integrity and great moral character will live on in the hearts of those he loved for generations to come.

Darrell is survived by his loving wife, Eloise “Lou” Cunningham of Terre Haute; children, Bill Cunningham and wife Kathy of Brazil, Bonnie Hiatt and husband Stephen III of Terre Haute and Sandra Little and husband William of Terre Haute; grandchildren, Leslie Wrightsman and husband Chris of Terre Haute, Michael “Butch” Auler II of Terre Haute, Darrell Cunningham III and wife Cathy of Terre Haute, Tiffany Fitzek of Terre Haute and Christian Tanner Little of Terre Haute; step-grandchildren, Stephen Hiatt IV and Stephanie Hiatt; great grandchildren, Bradon, Madeline, Zoe, Avery, Davon, Seth and Tristan; sister, Jean Arwood of Avon; brother-in-law, Dallas McKeen and several loving nieces, nephews and friends.

In addition to his parents, Darrell was preceded in death by his son, Darrell Cunningham II; infant son, Brian Lee Cunningham; brother, Harry Cunningham; sister, Joan McKeen; brother-in-law, Floyd Arwood and sister-in-law, Betty Cunningham.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 27, 2012 at Woodlawn Cemetery, 1300 N. 3rd St., Terre Haute. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to VNA/Hospice of the Wabash Valley, the American Cancer Society or a charity of the donor’s choice. The entire Cunningham family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Danielle, Judy and Deidre with Hospice of the Wabash Valley, Dr. P. Kumar and Dr. C. Reddy for the kind and compassionate care provided to Darrell. Thomas Funeral Home has been entrusted with Darrell’s funeral arrangements. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.thomasfuneralhome.net