CHARLES A. CUNNINGHMAM JR.

Charles (Chuck) A. Cunningham Jr. born Dec. 31, 1943, in Pontiac, Mich., lived most of his childhood in Fenton, Mich., was lost under the ice of the Gakona River at his home on May 1, 2004. His body was recovered on May 3.

He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1962 until his retirement in 1984 out of Eielson AFB near Fairbanks. He worked most of his military career in avionics, he also served in Vietnam. His next career was with the state of Alaska, Department of Corrections as a correctional officer from 1985 until his retirement in 1999.

He and his wife, Theresa, then moved to Gakona. Mr. Cunningham worked for the Gulkana Village Council as their housing security officer for about a year. His greatest joy was spending time with the village children. He then accepted a position with Doyon Universal Services as security on the pipeline, first working at the Valdez Marine Terminal for about four months and then transferring to Pump Station 11, where he remained till his death.

His family said, "His death, as well as his life, resulted in the coming together of many different people and cultures. He was loved by all. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling, sailing, four-wheeling, motorcycling, snowmachining and many other outdoor activities. He also had a tremendous love and companionship with his many animals."

He is survived by his wife, Theresa, and his children, daughter Kimberly of Eagle River, Rebecca of Montoursville, Penn., and son, Steven, of Florence, Ariz., stepdaughter, Regina, of Anchorage and stepson, Thomas, of Palmer and seven grandchildren. He also has brothers James and David and a sister, Diane, in Michigan. He was preceded in death by his mother, Louise, and father for whom he was named, Charles Sr.

A memorial service was held May 8 at Gulkana Village Community Center, in Gulkana.