Mr. John D. Cunningham Sr.

John Daniel Cunningham Sr., 74 years old, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, peacefully transitioned to eternal life on February 9, 2026.

John was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on January 9, 1952, to John and Patsy Cunningham. John moved to Milwaukee when he was 5 years old. John attended Palmer Street School, where he was an exceptional student and loved learning. John graduated from Lincoln High School in 1970, earning All-State honors in football and track.

He attended the University of Chicago and returned to Milwaukee to pursue a trade as a steamfitter. John worked for Wisconsin Electric for 16 years. He also worked for over 20 years as a steamfitter and served as Union President for the City of Milwaukee Water Works.

John was a motivational and inspiring person. He poured affirmations into everyone he encountered. He was dedicated to his friends and family, especially his children and grandchildren. John was a proud and faithful member of St. Marcus Lutheran Church for over 24 years. He was also a member of the Men’s Bible study group, faithfully reading his Bible and sharing his faith every day. He enjoyed all sports and had a lifelong love of athletics. John’s favorite basketball player was Oscar Robinson. He also loved watching the Green Bay Packers.

John is survived by his former wife Charlotte Cunningham; his siblings Gail, Nicholas, Marvin, LaRance and Kendra; his loving children Nicole (fiancé James) and John (wife Chela): his grandchildren: Brandon, Bria, John III, Jahnea, Gianna, and Giovanni; and his great-grandchild, Isabella.

He is preceded in death by his oldest daughter, Yonnda; his parents, John and Patsy; his siblings, Anthony, Treva, Theopolis, Dewayne, Patrice, and Kendall. John also leaves behind siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of close friends.

John’s love, laughter and presence will be forever cherished by those who were blessed to know him. He left behind a legacy of love that will never fade.

Visitation on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Krause Funeral Home, 7001 West Brown Deer Road, Milwaukee, WI, at 10:00Am. Funeral Service at 11:00Am. Burial at Graceland Cemetery.

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