Wayne Neil Cunningham

Wayne Neil Cunningham, age 62 of Westby, died on Wednesday, July 26, 2006 at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital. He was born on September 13, 1943 in Wadena, MN to Neil and Marie (McPeck) Cunningham. Wayne spent his toddler years in various places while his father, a WWII pilot was stationed in England and different airbases in the south. Wayne grew up on a farm in the Bemidji, MN area and graduated from Bemidji High School in 1961. He worked at several jobs in Minnesota and North Dakota before moving to Meadowlands, MN where he met Andrea Ralidak in 1969. They were married on June 19, 1971 and lived in Minnesota, North Dakota, Washington, and Colorado before settling in Westby in 1982. Wayne worked at many sales and agricultural jobs during his life but especially enjoyed working at Chain Drive, Inc. for the past twenty years selling Bobcats. Wayne volunteered time with the Westby Rod & Gun and Kiwanis Clubs and spent years as a leader with the Westby Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts where he influenced (and intimidated) many young men. He enjoyed the outdoors and spent much time camping, hunting, fishing and traveling with friends and family. Wayne is survived by two sons, Bryan (Beth) Cunningham of Eau Claire and David Cunningham of LaCrosse; his parents, Neil and Marie Cunningham of Worland, WY; his brothers, Steve and Dale (Nonie) Cunningham of Colorado; his grandchildren, Andrew and Benjamin Cunningham; as well as many loving in-laws, nieces, and nephews. Wayne was preceded in death by his wife, Andrea, on June 16, 2001 and her parents, Andrew and Mary Ellen "Perry" Ralidak. Funeral services for Wayne will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 31, 2006 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Westby. Pastor Gary Daines will officiate. Friends may call on Monday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Private memorial services will also be held in Meadowlands, MN and Worland, WY at dates yet to be determined. The Vosseteig Funeral Home of Westby is serving the family.