CUNNINGHAM, PAULINE WHITTEN - (1921-2012) - It is with great sadness that the family of Pauline Cunningham of Fredericton, announces her death at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital on Thursday, August 16th, 2012 at the age of 90. Born in Marysville, NB on September 6th, 1921, she was the daughter of the late Gilbert and Pauline (Whitten) Cunningham. In addition to her parents, Pauline is predeceased by two sisters, Ruth and Margaret and two brothers, David and Gilbert. Pauline will be sadly missed by her family, including many nieces and nephews as well as her close friends. Pauline graduated from the University of New Brunswick in 1943 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, followed by a Bachelor of Health degree from the University of Toronto and a Masters from New York University. She served in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force WAAF during the war and was posted in Gander, NL. Pauline had a long and rewarding career as a teacher and physical education specialist for the New Brunswick Department of Education from which she retired in 1982. Pauline loved to travel, and she visited all 5 continents and many countries such as Peru, Argentina, Guatemala, Mexico, Russia, Japan, India, Greece, Italy, Egypt, South Africa, Thailand, etc... often for international Physical Education conferences where she kept up to date with the latest techniques and research. Pauline always took an active interest in her community. She helped found the Fredericton Community Kitchen - she always said she would have loved to run a restaurant - the Kitchen gave her the guests she loved serving. Her volunteer work and dedication were recognized in many ways. In 1998 the City of Fredericton recognized Pauline with the Distinguished Citizen Award. In 1999 she was awarded the Fredericton YMCA Peace Medallion. Pauline was an active member of St. Paul's United Church. She was also a member of the New Brunswick Retired Teachers Association, a board member for Child Find and was involved with Norman House. She taught square dancing and gymnastics, tutored students in literacy and taught swimming to native children at the YMCA. She loved animals, especially her cats. It was a common sight to see Pauline driving around in her Volkswagon beetle or swimming at Killarney Lake. A special thank you is extended to the staff at Mountainside Lodge who took very good care of Pauline.
There will be no visitation or service at Pauline's request. A private family burial will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at a later date. For those who wish, donations in Pauline's memory can be made to the Fredericton Community Kitchen, the SPCA or charity of your choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to McAdam’s Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.mcadamsfh.com.