Sammy Lee Cunningham was born March 10, 1939, in McPherson, KS to the late Ray and Myrtle Mae (Bacons) Cunningham. He passed away Monday, March 1, 2010, in the Hays Medical Center at Hays, KS at the age of 70.

Sam graduated from the Trego Community High School with the class of 1957.


On January 18, 1958, he was united in marriage to Mary Jane Aschenbrenner in Christ the King Catholic Church at WaKeeney. He worked as a mechanic for 35 years at Harries Motor Company. He later operated his own business known as Sam's Repair.

Sam was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus and the Big Creek Golf Course, all in WaKeeney. Although Sam was always a hard worker, he enjoyed golfing, bowling, going gambling and watching KU basketball. When his children were younger, the family outing times were usually spent boating and skiing at Cedar Bluff.


Those left to mourn his passing are his wife, Mary Jane of the home; a son Allen of WaKeeney; two daughters, Lori Mahagan of Castle Rock, CO, Julie Cunningham and Joseph Lupomech of North Platte, NE; a brother, Bill and wife, Norma; and a sister, Verla Robinson, all of WaKeeney.


Those preceding him in death were infant twins, Samuel Lee, Jr. and Pamela Lee Cunningham; two brothers, Eldon and Richard Cunningham; and a sister Peggy Davis.

Visitation is Wednesday, March 3, 2010 from 5:00 to 6:30 PM with vigil service at 6:30 at Schmitt Funeral Home in WaKeeney, KS.

Services for Sam will be held 10:00 AM Thursday, March 4, 2010 in Christ the King Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given to Walk-A-Thon for Health or masses and can be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N Main, WaKeeney, KS 67672.