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David Cunha Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for David Cunha
Collette
December 16, 2004
May you forever ride the winds of heaven while spreading the warmth and peace you have over your family and loved ones.
saraleen sweeney
November 29, 2004
Our lifes will never be the same without dave. I am so thankful that I was lucky enough to have him in my life as a friend a brother and someone who always had this fantastic love for life. The best sense of humor and positive attitude about everything.I will always cherish the cowboy days/YOU GOTTA LEARN HOW TO RIDE FIRST!!!!!! LOVE LEENIE
Jim Mark
October 26, 2004
To say I love and miss Dave is an understatement. Our friendship was the only reason I transfered to Fresno. Dave was a rare Life-Force, the type of person you only meet once in a life-time. He embraced life and his friends with a tremendous passion and zeal. There was not a thing he would not do for his family or friends, just ask and it would be done! His loyalty is truely legendary. From the moment we met on a cold, windy day in December 1996, we developed a bond that neither could explain. He wisked me and my wife into his life and never let go! Dave taught me many things, and I keep each one with me today. I still hear him through the door of our offices saying "that's right, I forgot, is there anything you don't know my leige". On my nighstand sits a picture of Dave, me, my wife and Debbie. This picture will remain there there until the day that I see Dave again, his brilliant smile, drink in hand, cowboy hat on, beaconing me to shore! You will always be in my heart. I love you!
Dave, Fred and Eddie
October 13, 2004
Dave, Deb, Cheryl and Fred
October 13, 2004
Jacqueline Steager
October 4, 2004
I was so sad to hear of Chief's passing. When I was new to the unit, he was so helpful to me, and he always had a kind word or just a bright smile for me. What a wonderful man. My prayers are with you, Deb, and your kids. I know I'll always believe I see him out on the patio when I pass by.
Carl Schiefer
September 30, 2004
I was saddened to hear of Dave's passing. He was a "force of nature" in the Aircraft Maintenance area for many years and I count it my privilege to have served with him.
Fred Paxton
September 23, 2004
How can I describe the grief I feel over the loss of Dave? We were raised, not as Uncle and Nephew, but at brothers..we were not that far apart in age. We grew, and learned and went out separate ways in the early 60's. I went into the Army and he in the Air Force. But, we always managed to connect to do a little hunting or fishing when we were both in town.
Over the years, as we both got busier and busier, we lost physical contact, but we were always in touch. The times my wife (Cheryl) and I spent at "Davies World" will never be forgotten.
And our trading....lord..it was hard to keep score (according to Dave), although he had everything I owned....HE WIN's.
As for the man, what can I say? There is a large hole in my heart where blood and muscle used to be.
I miss you, my newphew, my friend...but, I have some bad news...they only serve FOSTER's beer in heaven!
I love you!
Cheryl Paxton
September 23, 2004
Deb, Michael, Heather & Zak,
With Dave's passing, I know that he is truly still with us wanting all of us to continue on with our life's and be happy.
He was a very special guy and we had some wonderful times together that I will cherish forever. I don't think anyone will ever forget the NOSE!
I feel truly blessed that I was part of his life for 30+ years, and that I was given the honor of helping out during his last days.
My love always,
Auntie Cheryl
Robbie Robinson
September 11, 2004
My prayers are with you, Deb. Dave was a rock. Godspeed
Robbie
Floyd and Pat Thionnet
September 8, 2004
We Thionnets have many fond memories from the years of being "next-door neighbors" with Cunhas at Pine Flat Lake. We will never forget Dave and his pink Cadillac! We will miss you, Dave, and send our love and sympathy to your family.
Floyd and Pat Thionnet and Family
Jon Flaugher
September 3, 2004
I am truly sorry for the loss of Dave. He served his Nation better than most I know. His expertise and outstanding judgement will be sorely missed. Your loss is also our Nation's loss. If there is anything you need, do not hesitate to ask.
Ernie Tibbet
September 1, 2004
I am so sorry about Daves passing.
God bless you and your family Debbie.
Cindy Kepple
August 31, 2004
I met Dave and Debbie when I was TDY to Fresno last year. They both were wonderful people and made me feel welcome to the unit and the area.
Dave really wanted me to go to the rodeo in April so he gave me a ticket. His love for the rodeo was contagious and it won't be the same without him.
My thoughts and prayers are with Debbie and Zachary in this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Dave.
Francelle V. Alexander
August 30, 2004
The Fresno Air Guard family will truly miss Dave, he has been a friend to so many. He has always had the respect of his piers and co-workers. I can’t remember ever seeing Dave without a smile about one thing or another. No matter who you were, with Dave you always felt welcome. We should all enjoy life the way Dave devoured life. God bless Debbie and the rest of his family. Your family has been and will contine to be in our prayers.
Dale Routt
August 28, 2004
Dave and I joined the Guard in 1973 at Tucson, Arizona, along with Richard Rodriguez and Eldon Rauch and we served together ever since. It will not be the same without Dave and I miss him terribly. He was like a brother to me and there will always be a place in my heart for him. I love you Dave. Take care my brother and fellow Chief.
Tony Cannon
August 28, 2004
One good man. God bless and keep on smiling.
Jack Bolt
August 27, 2004
Dear Debbie, I was so sad to hear Dave and his long battle was over. I know that when I needed help with anything while I was working at Fresno, Dave was THE man to go to. He made me and countless others always look and do their best at any task. Please know that in this time of sorrow,our hearts go out to you and I am proud to have called Dave my friend. Jack & Joni Bolt
Susie & Steve Fox
August 26, 2004
Dear Miss Debbie and Family:
What can we say? Our prayers and hearts go out to you in your time of grief. Anyone who spent any time at all with Dave was blessed. Someone told me the other day that Dave reminded him of John Wayne. I had to agree. He was larger than life, a natural leader and a great friend. To say that we will miss him is an understatement. We will however always be greatful to have been able to call him "Friend".
Richard Miller
August 26, 2004
Debbie,
I worked with Dave "Chief" in 1995 while during a TDY in Fresno. I can remember him as a friendly, kindhearted man who was fair and honest. He had an uncanny sense of humor and he was one of the people who "made it happen".
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and your family in this time of need. God's Blessings to all of you.
John Streatch
August 25, 2004
Debbie, may God sustain and comfort you in this time.I pray that he will bless you with his presence. Dave was part of the foundation of this base, a corner stone.
PAULA SILVA
August 25, 2004
DAVE WERE GOING TO MISS YOU SO MUCH.ARE PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU DEBBIE AND FAMILY.
MICHAEL MCMANIS
August 25, 2004
PARTY ON DUDE. I'LL MISS-YA.. WE'LL ALL MISS-YA.
Mike Mac, Maintenance Mechanic FANGB
A.K.A. SCUMBAG
Linda Romero
August 25, 2004
My prayers go out to you Debbie, and your family. May God Bless you and your famliy.
Al Romero
August 25, 2004
Debbie, Our prayers are with you in this time of sorrow, But I know that Chief is in a better place now free of all the pain. He is a man that can never be forgotten. Whenever I hear the bell ring in the Club I will always remember him, cause there never was a time that he came in there and didn't ring it, or come over to say Hi and give us a handshake. He will forever be missed. Take care and god bless.
Robert Dean Gillum
August 25, 2004
Debbie and Family, My prayers are with you and I thank you for sharring Dave with us all. He will be missed... God Bless You All and May God Be With You !!
R Dean Gillum
Bruce Hinman
August 25, 2004
Chief Cunha was a wonderful example of the type of person a Chief should be in my mind. A leader, a confidante, a counselor, a friend. He always had time to talk, to give guidance, and most of all, to listen. He will be sorely missed.
I hope that his family finds comfort in this knowledge and looks for strength in Gods love.
Bruce
Manuel Hernandez
August 24, 2004
Debbie,
I admired Chief and his sense of humor! Pointing his finger in my face and saying something that was worth listening to. Always willing to share a cigar! Willing to share a drink! Or even just be a leader for us youngsters to admire while living up to his challenge. Do your best, and you will never have to defend your actions since people already know you by your character. Thank you Debbie for your dedication! My prayers go to you and your family in this time of reflection.
Manny
David Marean
August 24, 2004
Chief: May God's Blessing be with you on this, the next leg of your journey. It has been an honor to serve with you for nearly 20 years. Debbie, thanks for your devotion and strength through this ordeal, it is God given. And, to the family, we share your sadness.
Dave, Chief, friend. God's Blessing of Peace be with you and your's.
Kelly Akers
August 24, 2004
The good times at the lake will never be forgotten. I'll always treasure all the wonderful memories I have of the lake trips with Davey and all the Cunhas. Until we meet again, Davey - you'll be missed.
Arthur Duncan
August 24, 2004
I have heard the best only come around once in life. It's true and we knew him as Dave. Debbie, thanks for the few precious moments you allowed us to share with him. We'll meet again Chief.
Scott Keller
August 24, 2004
I really must echo the... "Can do Brother" discreption of Dave. I, for one, had the privilege of witbnessing first hand, Dave's capabilities and sense of humor. This one hurts.
May God bless Dave and his family, and, be rest assured, that both he and his family will be added to the Keller Family Rosary.
Scott Keller
Kristin Kircher-Ruegge
August 24, 2004
God Bless You David and his family, Mike, Kim and Heather. You will truly be missed by everyone and thank you for serving our country
Janetra Johnson
August 23, 2004
Dear Chief,
I would like to Thank You for all that you have done for me. You took my hand and guided me through most of military career. Without your understanding, patience, and kindness my career would not be what it is today. The attention, respect, and support you gave to me are priceless. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. jj
Paul Gruver
August 23, 2004
Patriot. Leader. Mentor. Professional. Friend. All these words apply to Chief Cuhna and his tremendously positive impact on the 144th Fighter Wing and the Air National Guard.
On my first day commanding the Maintenance Group, Chief Cuhna eloquently soothed my initial apprehension by saying, "Don't worry, sir, I've trained lots of commanders, some better and some worse, but we'll get you through." Gotta' love a straight shooter.
We'll miss the Chief, but Dave's leadership and patriotism live on in the faces of the hundreds of Guardsmen he's mentored over his decades of service. This organization's ability to meet any tasking, despite overwhelming obstacles, is largely due to the Chief's take-no-prisoners approach. I'll be forever thankful for the can-do legacy Chief Cuhna leaves us.
God speed, Chief!
Rob Rylee
August 23, 2004
Cheif. HappyTrails, Via con dios, enjoying riding the big range in the sky. All my love, your cowboy buddy, Rob (Robster) Rylee.
Al Heers
August 23, 2004
A major player for 30+ years, Dave contributed a huge share to the outstanding accomplishments of the 144th. He was at the top of the list of the "Can-do Brothers." He was smart, savvy, straight forward (no BS), tough yet compassionate, and always accomplished the mission with unwavering determination and integrity. He will be truly missed.
Al De Luca
August 23, 2004
Dave will surely be missed.
Greg Frazer
August 23, 2004
Dave was a "stand out in a crowd" guy, remembered by everyone who met him. Always cheery and willing to lend a hand, he will be missed by many.
Tom Westbrook
August 23, 2004
I am saddened to hear of Dave's passing. It was an honor to have served with a man of such integrity, skill, and professionalism. There was no mission that Dave could not find a way to accomplish.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Debbie and the rest of his family. May you find peace in this difficult time.
Ray Bluhm
August 23, 2004
It was a privalage to have served with Dave at the FANG. He was truly a leader in making the unit the great place that it is. Dave will be missed.
Doug Moore
August 23, 2004
"Consummate professional, steadfast friend, always a joy to be with." Dave will be missed immensely by all who knew him.
Brenda and Dale Routt
August 23, 2004
Dave was an exceptional man! No one was a stranger to him. He embraced people as he embraced life. Full force and living to the fullest. He will be greatly missed.
The picture was taken at Pine Flat a few years back. Dave and Debs favorite summer time activity.
Chuck Pratt
August 23, 2004
Dave was not only a great freind to me but like a father. He truly cared about about people and gave unselfishly of himself to all. He leaves a space that cannot be filled
Shirley & Kemet Stine
August 23, 2004
I don't remember a time when Dave wasn't around at the Air National Gurd Base. He always made us laugh. Debbie and I went TDY in Dec 03 to Las Vegas and Dave wanted to be a "kept" man. This was one of the few times he got to tag along on her TDY. It was usually the other way around. We had so much fun on the trip.
Dave always thought the Air Force Dress Uniform should have a sword. He would see another branch of service with a sword and would just go on about how we should have a sword. I know Dave now has his sword and is sitting at the right hand of God and talking about he should have had one all along.
His passing leaves us with heavy hearts and wonderful memories on base. He will never be forgotten. He was and always will be a true hero in the hearts and minds of the 144th Fighter Wing, Fresno Air National Guard Base.
Our thoughts and prayers go to his beloved soulmate Debbie, his kids Mike, Kim, Heather and Zak. He will be sorely missed.
Jim & Linda Hampson
August 22, 2004
"Everybody Loves Davey" would be a hit show of endless real life episodes! Our lives are fuller and happier because of his friendship.
Nathan and Michelle Kircher
August 22, 2004
Dave always made sure everyone was in a great mood, and was sure to make everyone smile. He will be greatly missed.
Bill& Becky Youmgs
August 22, 2004
We were glad to be able to see Dave before his passing.He will always hold a special place in our hearts.He has been a good friend over the years.
Jerry Torbet
August 21, 2004
David will be missed very much. We had great times at the lake. I enjoyed working with him very much at the ANG.
Jim (B.O.B.) McNab
August 21, 2004
I am deeply saddened at the news of Dave's passing.
Knowing and working with Dave for more than twenty years at the Fresno Air National Guard was an honor. Dave was one of those rare individuals who made things happen while maintaining the respect of all those around him.
His professionalism, coupled with his genial personality, made the hard times go a bit easier. After the work was done, it was just downright fun to be around Dave.
I send my heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolences to Dave's family.
Respectfully,
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