Jerry Allen "Jake" Cunningham

The family of Jerry (Jake) Allen Cunningham, age 89, is saddened to announce his passing on July 21, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa.

Jake was born in Warsaw, Missouri on April 19, 1936. He later moved to Prescott, Iowa where he grew up and graduated in 1954. He met and married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Lavon Polson. They married on June 19, 1955, and enjoyed 66 years of love and laughter. Jake and Marilyn were blessed with two daughters, Jeri and Kelly.

Jake began his career in the music industry selling records with Capitol Records, ABC Records, and RCA Records. During his time in the record business, he had the opportunity to meet many famous musicians including Alabama, The Judds, Shania Twain, and his favorite, Dolly Parton. He and his family lived in Des Moines, Minneapolis, and Chicago before returning to settle and raise their family in Urbandale in 1967. Jake eventually shifted his career into real estate where he continued to find success with both Iowa Realty and most recently 25 years with Coldwell Banker. You may have received one or more of his marketing flashlights during that time. His strong work ethic and love for people helped him earn many prestigious awards.

He had a passion for golf, shooting pool, and playing cards. Jake loved the Iowa Hawkeyes, St. Louis Cardinals, and the Minnesota Vikings. Recently, you could find him out dining with a friend or two at one of his favorite spots. Jake lived a full and vibrant life marked by warmth, humor, and generosity. His greatest joy came from getting together with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren to celebrate birthdays, holidays, or special events. Jake was a long-time faithful member of The Bridge and loved making coffee on Sunday mornings.

Left to cherish many memories are his two daughters Jeri (Doug) Gotto, of Grimes, Iowa and Kelly (Dean) Looney of Dallas, Texas, two grandchildren, Zach (Stephanie) Gates of West Des Moines, Iowa and Brianna (Nick) Long of Urbandale, Iowa, five great grandchildren, Noah and Kenley Gates and Hayden, William, and Lucy Long, his sister Sue Downs and countless other relatives and friends.

Jake was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn (Mac) Cunningham and his parents William and Clara Cunningham. He will be forever missed by all his family and friends. He may be gone from our sight, but his flashlights will shine forever.

Visitation will be held Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the Merle Hay Funeral Home in Des Moines, Iowa from 5:00-7:00 PM. Celebration of Life will be Friday, July 25, 2025, at The Bridge Church in Johnston, Iowa at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Bridge Church.