Gene E. Cunningham, 86, Springfield, passed away on Tuesday, September 6, 2016 from a long illness. Gene was born on December 19, 1929 to George T. Cunningham and Glenn Payne Cunningham, both of Wichita, KS. He was a very giving, compassionate man and was always ready to help anyone in need.

Gene was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in Korea during his enlistment. After the service, Gene returned to Wichita, where he owned and operated several used car dealerships. In 1963, Gene Cunningham moved to Springfield, MO, where he was partners with Dean Wise of both Central Dodge and Friendly Ford. He retired in 1979 and sold Central Dodge and Friendly Ford. Gene was a very respected businessman in the Springfield business community. Business and finance were his passions.

Gene is survived by his wife, Jeanne Kunkel Cunningham. Together they enjoyed living in Las Vegas, NV and Dallas, TX for several years before returning to Springfield. Gene was preceded in death by two sisters, Allene Cunningham and True Cunningham Jackson; and one brother, Paul Cunningham, all of Wichita, KS. Gene is also survived by his daughter, Linda Cunningham and husband, Barney Byard of Wichita, KS; his son, Travis Cunningham and wife, Paula of Wichita, KS; step-daughter, Jennifer Kunkel Young and husband, T.J. Young of Nixa, MO; step-sons, Doug Kunkel and wife, Connie King-Kunkel of Springfield, MO; and Bill Kunkel of Hendersonville, TN; three grandchildren; ten step-grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; twelve step-great-grandchildren; one step-great-great-granddaughter; and many other extended family and friends.

Graveside services with full military honors will be held in Missouri Veterans Cemetery at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, September 8, 2016, under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family of Gene Cunningham ask that you make a donation to your favorite charity.