CUNNINGHAM RUSSELL J. 87, died Friday at Ave Maria Convalescent Hospital in Monterey, California. Mr. Cunningham was born on August 13, 1915 in San Francisco, California, the son of Joseph and Helen Cunningham. A graduate of Burlingame High School, he lived in San Bruno for 63 years until he retired with his dear wife, Rose, to Pebble Beach, California in 1979. Russell joined the San Bruno Police Department in 1938, becoming Chief of Police in 1962. He retired in 1978 after 40 years of service and dedication. He was a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the San Mateo County Police Chiefs and Sheriff Association, Past President of the Bay Counties and Peninsula Peace Officers Associations and graduate of the 63rd session of the National F.B.I. Academy. He was active in the St. Robert's Men's Club, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, Meals on Wheels, Rancho Canada Dons and Players Club, the Carmel Orchid Society, the Optimists Club, Wally Byam Caravan Club, SIRS, a volunteer at the AT&T Pro-Am, and charter member of the Elks Lodge #2091, in South San Francisco. Mr. Cunningham is survived by his wife of 66 years, Rose Cunningham, of Pebble Beach, daughter, Suzanne Caughey of Prunedale, daughter, Rosanne Seratti of San Jose, sons-in-law, Allan Caughey and Donald Seratti, four grandchildren, and three great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, brother to the late Bernice Thomas, Robert Cunningham, his twin, and Donald Cunningham, both of Redwood City, California. Visitation will be from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., Wednesday at St. Robert's Church, Crystal Springs Road, San Bruno. Rosary will follow. Mass will be celebrated at 1:15 p.m. on Thursday, at St. Robert's Church. Cremation services will be private. The family suggests that any memorial contribution be made to the American Cancer Society, the Alzheimer's Association, or the St. Vincent de Paul Society, 146 Eighth Street, Pacific Grove, CA 93950.

Alameda Times-Star 4/9/03.