Christopher Cunningham

1958 - 2025

Christopher Cunningham

October 14, 1958 - September 18, 2025

State College, Pennsylvania - This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

On this day, September 18, 2025, Christopher Cunningham (age 66, of State College, Pennsylvania), was welcomed home into the gates of heaven where he heard his Savior say, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

Born on October 14, 1958, in Wilmington, Delaware, Chris was the son of Francis and Kathryn Cunningham. He graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Science degree and later earned a Master of Arts from Biblical Theological Seminary. He was ordained to ministry by The Evangelical Church Alliance.

In 1981, Chris joined Cru (formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ) beginning what became his lifelong call to ministry. He first served at the University of Delaware and later at Millersville University, alongside his new bride, Karen. The two were married on May 28, 1983, and shared more than four decades of faith and service together. In 1986, Chris and Karen began doing ministry at West Chester University, where Chris later became the campus director in 1991. In 2000, Chris, Karen and their kids moved to State College, where Chris spent the past 25 years as director of Bridges International (Cru's ministry to international students) at Penn State University. Chris's heart for ministry took him overseas many times, where he invested in people and communities far beyond Penn State.

Chris's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband; father of six; and proud grandfather of eleven. He loved playing games, telling stories and jokes, and was known for lighting up the dance floor at weddings. He also enjoyed being active, especially hiking, and in recent years climbed Mount Nittany daily. He instilled in his children a love for the Lord, which remains one of his greatest legacies.

Everything about Chris's life was guided by his faith and love for Jesus Christ. He loved to read, learn, and engage in thoughtful conversation and debate. He welcomed others with open arms, showing hospitality to countless strangers who became friends.

Chris is survived by his wife of 42 years, Karen; their children Anna (Sean), Cliff (Stephanie), Josh (Eliza), Jonathan (Kelsey), Abigail (Samuel), and Jesse (Marguerite); eleven grandchildren Fiona, Nora, Catherine, Everett, Eloise, Clive, Leo, Stevie, Thatcher, Josephine, and Christopher; his mother, Kathryn; sisters Kathy, Claire, and Eileen; and brothers Neil and Matthew. He was preceded in death by his father, Francis; and his brother Kevin.

A viewing will be held on Monday, September 22nd from 6 pm to 8 pm at State College Alliance Church ,1221 W. Whitehall Rd., State College, Pa. A private burial will take place the following morning.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 23rd at 10:30 am at the State College Alliance Church. Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of Chris's life and legacy. Lunch will be served afterwards.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Compassion International in Chris's memory: https://www.compassion.com/donate-to-charity.htm

Online condolences may be shared at www.kochfuneralhome.com