Gilbert Cunningham

Gilbert "Wayne" Cunningham, 78, of Syracuse, passed away on Monday, March 18, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Wayne was born in Syracuse, New York on March 31, 1945 the son of the late Daniel and Alnora Cunningham. He was owner of The Village Deli in East Syracuse, until he retired in 2022. Wayne was an avid fan of golf, Syracuse University Football & Basketball and the Dallas Cowboys. He also enjoyed writing poetry, reading and dancing.

Wayne was an active member of the community. He founded the East Syracuse Chamber of Commerce, served as its President, served in the East Syracuse Lions Club, the Kiwanis Club and sat on several boards and committees for the Village of East Syracuse, Town of DeWitt and East Syracuse Minoa School District. He had a special passion for DECA in the ESM School District.

Most of all he loved spending time with his beloved family usually grilling something good on his beautiful deck.

He was predeceased by his sister, Sharon Light.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryl Cunningham; four children, Lisa Somers, Brian (Kari) Cunningham, Shannon (Thaddeus) Mantaro, Robert (Denise) White; six grandchildren; one great grandchild; his sister, Debbie (Gordon) Randall; along with many cousins, nieces, nephews and his dog Rafferty.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024 from 12-3pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 705 N. Main St., N. Syracuse, with services at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Helping Hounds Dog Rescue or to Hospice of CNY.

To share a memory of Wayne or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.