Walter R. Cunningham, 93, most recently of Franklin Massachusetts died peacefully on Tuesday April 8, 2025.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts in 1931, he was the youngest son of Charles and Nellie (Nash). After graduating Whitman Hanson high school, he worked as a school bus mechanic and driver, where he met the love of his life, Joan (Ellis). They married and moved to Halifax where they lived happily for 44 years. Walter spent his career intertwined with school buses. His skill and
leadership earned him the role of General Manager for Carey's Bus Company, Ryder Student Transportation and First Student, where he made his mark in the industry. Even in retirement, his passion didn't wane as he returned to his roots—driving school buses with pride and purpose.
Walter's sense of adventure was evident in his frequent journeys between South Carolina and New York. His unannounced visits became treasured surprises for family and friends, embodying his spontaneous and caring nature. He will be remembered for his dedication to family, his work ethic, and his zest for life.
Walter was predeceased by his wife Joan (Ellis), his brothers Charles and Robert, his sister Helen Johnson, and his grandson Jack Derick.
Walter is survived by his children, daughter Jody Derick and her husband Jim, sons Walter and his wife Cheryl (Topping) and Chad and his wife Kelli (Burr), his grandchildren Michael Derick and his wife Pam Duran, Bryan LaFleur, Christopher Derick and Emma Cunningham and his great granddaughter Alessia Derick Duran.
Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Saturday May 3rd from 10:00-11:00 am with a funeral service beginning at 11:00 am at the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, 666 Plymouth Street (Rte. 58 @ the rotary) Whitman. Interment will take place at Fern Hill Cemetery, Hanson, MA.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Safe Coalition, 31 Hayward St, Franklin, MA 02038
www.safecoalitionma.org
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