There will be a Celebration of Life Friday, August 7, 2015, from 12:00 noon to 3:00 P.M., at Seascape Beach Resort (Riviera Room) in Aptos.
Richard James Cunningham passed peacefully in his sleep, at 66 years old – the world lost a truly great man.
Known variably as Dick, Rich, Richie, Old Man, Uncle Richard, dad, and most recently grandpa, he was born and raised in San Jose, though he called San Martin home for the past 35 years.
Richard worked as a gardener for the City of San Jose, retiring seven years ago.
An avid surfer, he loved all things ocean, and still took his board out in search of waves and salty air. A kind, fun-loving man, he was always ready for a party. More so, he loved being the center of the party.
He loved animals; a dog person through and through. He loved to make people laugh, and was a terrific and energetic storyteller. He never met a stranger that stayed a stranger for long.
Sporting a thick white beard in preparation for the holidays, he looked forward to playing Santa every Christmas for anyone in need of a visit, and especially loved giving out gifts at Betsy’s Restaurant on Christmas Day for over 20 years.
A life-long hippie, and classic rocker, anyone who met him knew that he marched to the beat of his own drum, and he certainly lived life to its fullest.
Richard leaves behind his wife, Cathy, his daughter, Alison (Chris) and new grandson, Hayden, and son, Andrew (Tricia). He is also survived by his loving siblings, Steve (Gayle) and Anita (Mike), nephews, Elliot and Tristan, brothers-in-law, Jay and Tim, and niece Lexey.
