Command Sergeant Major Edward James Cunningham (USA, Ret.), born in Des Moines, Iowa on September 25, 1945 to Dr. James Paul & Mrs. Lucille Delores Cunningham (née Gurski), died unexpectedly and peacefully on November 7, 2023 at the age of 78. 

He boarded at Campion Jesuit HS in Wisconsin, then graduated from Dowling HS and Drake University, both in Des Moines. After a stint in optometry, he was VP of Plaza State Bank, then CEO of Iowa Student Loan Liquidity Corp. in Des Moines, Senior Executive of Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency in Harrisburg, and CEO of Kentucky Higher Education Student Loan Corp. in Louisville. He was an active hockey player & official well into his 70s, a longtime member of the Patriot Guard, American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars; his military service spanned nearly 30 years. He was a proud citizen of both the United States and Ireland. He enjoyed motorcycle rides with his wife and was an avid locomotive and aviation enthusiast. 

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 44 years, Cherilyn "Sam" Cunningham; his son, Donald James (Alexandra) Cunningham; sister, Mary Rita Seckington-Burns (Robert); brother-in-law, Danny Christenson; and sisters-in-law, Diane Bunton (Arthur), Carlene Shoafstall (Earl), and Diane Christenson, as well as many adored nieces and nephews. 

Ed was truly the life of the party, and his infectious smile and limitless charm captured every room. 

Services anticipated for Saturday, November 18th at 2.00 PM at the Camp Dodge Chapel. A reception will follow at 4:00 PM at the Glen Oaks Country Club (Shakes Room in the main clubhouse), 1401 Glen Oaks Drive, West Des Moines, 50266.

Arrangements held by Iles Funeral Homes, Des Moines, Iowa, (515) 276-4567

Obituary published in Des Moines Register.

https://www.ilesfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Edward-James-Cunningham/_/1891486