James R. Cunning, 83, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, died May 30th, 2012, at Gothenburg Memorial Hospital in Gothenburg.

Jim was born June 18th, 1928, at Hopkins, Missouri, to Ray and Nettie (Peve) Cunning. Soon after his birth, his family moved to Gothenburg where he grew up and graduated from Gothenburg High School. Jim enlisted in United States Air Force on September 13th, 1950. He was honorably discharged on September 12th, 1954.

Jim and his wife had two children, Gary and Denise. In 1954, Jim and his family moved to Alamogordo, New Mexico. During this time Jim worked as a security guard at White Sands Missile Range. In 1981, Jim moved back to Gothenburg. Jim loved coaching little league sports, and watching Nebraska football games. His greatest joy was watching and supporting young athletes in all sports.

Survivors include his daughter Denise and husband Allen Musgrove of Los Lunas, New Mexico, son Gary and wife Dana Cunning of Old Hickory, Tennessee; grandchildren, Amy Bell and husband Shane of New Mexico, Staci Musgrove of Texas, Amber Ackley and husband Walt of Texas, Cody Cunning and Summer Cunning of Tennessee; great-grandchildren, Kelsey, Kaden, Jaden and Melia; along with many friends and extended family.

Jim was preceded in death by father Ray; mother Nettie; brothers Clyde, Charles, Wren Eugene and Johnnie Francis; and sister Pearle.

Graveside services were held at Gothenburg Cemetery, on June 4th, 2012 with Pastor Larry Viter officiating.

Burial was in the Gothenburg Cemetery.    

Memorials may be given to the St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.blasestrauser.com