Obituary
Our wonderful husband and father, Doug Cunningham, passed away at the age of 83 at his home in Cape Coral, Florida. Born on August 14, 1942, in Nitro, West Virginia, Doug lived a life marked by curiosity, dedication, and an uncanny ability to fix (or invent) just about anything.
Doug proudly served five years in the U.S. Marine Corps, an experience that instilled the discipline he carried into his professional life. He then channeled that focus into a successful 25- year career as a Computer Programmer for IBM.
Doug’s true calling, however, was invention. He loved a challenge and was happiest when he was creating new tools and techniques for solving problems. From complex programming puzzles to practical fixes around the house, Doug approached every task with inventive logic.
Doug shared a beautiful and devoted 39-year marriage with his wife, Cathy. He lived by the philosophy that “happiness is found along the way, not at the end of the road.” Together, they found that happiness in the everyday journey—from life on a farm in North Carolina to the unique coastal beauty of Sanibel Island and Cape Coral, Florida.
He was a man who appreciated simple pleasures; he could often be found sitting around a campfire or on the lanai, perhaps with a can of warm beer (yes, we said warm), enjoying the company, some jazz, and the quiet moments. He also had a gentle heart, reserving a special fondness for baby animals, and he enjoyed gardening and fishing.
Doug was a loving father to his four children: Michelle Workman, Doug Cunningham, Don Cunningham, and Dave Hunter. He was also a treasured grandfather.
He is survived by his wife, Cathy, and his four children. He was preceded in death by his elder sister, Barbara (“Bobbie”). Growing up just two years apart, the two remained very close until her death ten years ago.
If you wish to honor Doug’s memory, donate to a charity of your choice, to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital, or to Harry Chapin Food bank.
Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you. Doug was such a great guy and he sure knew how to fix things! I’ll never forget him up on the roof of your Sanibel house after hurricane Charlie fixing it!
He certainly fought the good fight and lived life in the moment. We so enjoyed the time you were our neighbors on Sanibel.
With sympathy,
Steve and Cathy Maxwell
To Cathy & all of my cousins- I'm so sorry for your loss and will hold you all in my heart.