Obituary of Kevin Arthur Cunningham

CUNNINGHAM, Kevin Arthur - Forty-one years into his life, and with beloved family members at his side, Kevin passed away peacefully on Nov. 13, 2010 at the London Health Sciences Centre. Through immense sadness at this time, Kevin leaves memories of great joy to his family and friends. Kevin is greatly missed by his parents Dianne and David; sister Terri and brother-in-law Don Hogarth; brother Sean and sister-in-law Dubie; aunts and uncles Carol Anne and Alan Panter, Linda and Dan Evans, and Eileen Robertson; cousins Diana, David, Natasha, Megan and Jeremy; and step mother Anne. He was a very proud uncle to Marshall, Evan, Mattie, Mia and Mariana. Kevin was pre-deceased by his grandparents David and Linda Evans, and Arthur and Lilian Cunningham. There were many special people in his life, among them his other mothers Pattie McCourtie, Ann Jenkins and Muriel Hill, and the Hogarth and Kovacevic families. Kevin also leaves behind his yellow lab and close companion, Casey. Kevin is remembered by legions of friends for his warm, energetic and larger-than-life presence. With his beaming smile and infectious laugh, he became known to many around London as the Mayor of Richmond Row. Kevin's passions included sports, both as a player and spectator, art, travel, politics, music and euchre. In the hockey arena and especially on the basketball court, he was a leader. He played hockey for more than 20 years in the George Bray league. The Western Mustangs, Michigan Wolverines and even the Toronto Maple Leafs never had a more dedicated fan. He loved his work at TJ Baxter's, working out at the YMCA, golfing at Sunningdale, cottaging in Muskoka and skiing at Georgian Peaks. Kevin will be remembered by all who knew him for his bravery and endurance in facing the challenges of a brain injury. After surviving a serious car accident at age 14, Kevin succeeded in regaining his health. Though he faced many setbacks over almost 27 years, he never complained. He celebrated every day of his life with laughter, dignity, caring, compassion - and hugs. The family would like to express its gratitude to the nurses and doctors at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) for their excellent and compassionate care - in particular the Critical Care nurses who attended to Kevin around the clock. Thanks also to the doctors who oversaw his care over many years: Doctors Gary Ferguson, John Girvin, Peter Fowler and Rick McLachlan. Visitation will be held at John T. Donohue Funeral Home, 362 Waterloo Street at King Street, London on Wednesday, Nov. 17th from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A celebration of Kevin's life will be held at First-St. Andrew's United Church, 350 Queens Avenue, London, on Thursday, Nov. 18th at 12 noon. A reception will follow. Donations in Kevin's memory can be made to London's Epilepsy Support Centre (www.epilepsyontario.org - click on Local Agencies), the LHSC Epilepsy Unit (www.lhsc.on.ca/eeg/epiu.htm), George Bray Sports Association (www.georgebraysports.ca), and the Strong Kids Program at the YMCA of Western Ontario (www.ymcawo.ca).