Charles (Chuck) Cunningham was born in Orange County, CA to Caroleen Ahlstrom Cunningham and Henry Cunningham.  Caroleen passed away a week after Chuck was born. He was raised by his loving grandparents, Charles and Grace Ahlstrom.  He had an especially close relationship with his “dad” Charles.

Chuck was an incredibly talented person. He could play music by ear and pick up any instrument and play it.  He was particularly gifted at singing and the piano. While a young man Chuck played piano at the Red Wagon Inn on Main St. in Disneyland and was also a Coke Corner pianist. He tried out to be part of the Mickey Mouse Club and says he made it but his grandmother (who raised him) would only let him perform as an alternate. He did get to dance on top of the Disneyland Hotel with Annette Funicello. Some of his other talents were playing the accordion, painting (including on china), and being a puppeteer. He created his own marionette puppets and put on shows around So. California. He worked for Sid & Marty Krofft in Las Vegas doing puppet shows as well.

Chuck worked as a florist in Orange County for many years, first as the manager of Hillview Flowers and then as the owner of his own shop, the Golden Lion. He had a reputation as one of the finest and most creative florists in the county.

For many years, Chuck directed youth choral groups and adult choirs at several churches. His daughter particularly remembers when he was part of the musical group, Potter’s Clay, while at Sunkist Baptist Church and that they performed across the country. In addition, he was the choir director at Sunkist for several years and also served as their custodian for a while. The junior and senior high schools were down the street so students walking home from school often would stop and talk to him at the church.

In 1992 Chuck and wife Sandra moved to Silver City. He found a place to share his love for music at the Methodist Church and later at the First Baptist Church. He also joined the staff of the Music Department at WNMU. Piano students kept him busy for many years along with the University schedule and drama theater shows at the Buckhorn Opera House. His love of theater and music filled his life.

Chuck was married to Judith Osborn Cunningham, who passed away in 2014. After his marriage to Judith ended in the 1980’s, he married Sandra Mounce Cunningham and they remained until her death in 2013.  He is survived by his daughter, Nycole Cunningham Rochford; his sister, Gwen Ahlstrom Harlow; her children, Deanna, Bob, Jim, and Don Harlow; his good friends and caregivers, Glenn and Nita Dibble; and many friends.  

Cremation has taken place at Terrazas Crematory. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777.  To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.