Dennis Funeral Homes

JOSEPH B. CUNNINGHAM, age 61 of Waseca died on Saturday, August 29, 2009 at his residence in Waseca.

Born on August 18, 1948 in Waseca, Minnesota he was the son of Joseph F. and Elinor Celine (McDermott) Cunningham.  He attended Sacred Heart School and graduated from Waseca High School.  He later graduated from Mankato State University.  Following his schooling, Joe served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.  He was awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star, Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation Gallantry Cross Color, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.  Following his honorable discharge, Joe worked with the State of MN Prison System until his health forced him to retire.  He enjoyed reading, writing and carving.  He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus.  He was very active with numerous veterans clubs including the American Legion and VFW, Vietnam Last Mans Club, Marine Corp League, and Disabled American Veterans.

He is survived by two sisters, Laurie (LeRoy) Lierman of West Point, Nebraska and Patty (Glen) Cole of Minnetonka; three nieces; six nephews; and 12 great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2009 at 10:30 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca.  Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Waseca.  Visitation will be held on Saturday, one hour before services at the church.