Damon Sr. Obituary (1922

HALLOWELL - Damon E. Cunningham, Sr. 88, of Hallowell, died Thursday April 29, 2010 at the Augusta Rehabilitation Center. He was born in Gardiner Jan. 27, 1922, the son of Neal Sr. and Ida (Dickinson) Cunningham. Damon attended school in Gardiner and worked at Bath Iron Works during World War II. After the war, he worked for New England Telephone as a mechanic, retiring after more than 20 years of service. He was quite a prankster with the guys in the garage. He went on to drive a bus for Maine Central Bus Lines and got a lot of enjoyment out of driving the students on many trips out of state. He often brought gifts home to his family from those trips. Damon enjoyed taking trips to the coast, especially to Pemaquid Point, with his wife. He also liked old cars. He was a dedicated father and husband, and was a member of Hallowell Lodge 5, AF&AM, with more than 55 years as a Mason. He was also a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America. Mr. Cunningham was predeceased by his brother, Neal Cunningham Jr., and his sister, Barbara Smiley. He is survived by his wife, Jane (Grimshaw) Cunningham; his sons, Damon Cunningham Jr. of Augusta, Frederick Cunningham and his wife, Cecilia, of Chelsea, Bruce Cunningham and his wife, Patricia, of East Winthrop, and Jeffrey Cunningham of West Gardiner; and his grandchildren, Sarah and Eric Cunningham, Kelly Cunningham Souci, Cami Cunningham DeMerchant, Katina M. Paquet and Brad R. Ulmer; along with several nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren in the Augusta, South China and Gardiner areas. All services for Mr. Cunningham will be private. Damon's family wishes to express its appreciation for all the care and understanding extended by MaineGeneral Medical Center, Family Medicine Institute, Maine Medical Center and the Alfond Cancer Center. Special thanks to all the staff at Augusta Rehabilitation Center and HealthReach for Damon's most recent care. Memorial donations may be made in his name to Health Reach Hospice, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, Maine 04903-0828 Condolences may be sent to the family at www.khrfuneralhomes.com