Barbara J. Cunningham

Barbara J. Cunningham (Gordon) age 79, of East Dundee, IL and formerly of Hoffman Estates, IL passed away on June 9, 2024 at The Pearl of Crystal Lake. She was born in Chicago, Illinois on March 29, 1945 the daughter of Lawrence A. and Bernice E. (Tosch) Gordon.

She was a secretary for the Criminal Investigations Department for the U.S. Army in Okinawa; accompanying her husband while he was stationed there. Upon returning to the United States, she had 2 children. While raising her children she worked in the medical field until she retired. Barbara spent many hours tending to her lawn and garden, doing puzzles and enjoyed knitting. She learned how to sew from her grandma (Granny) and later on started a remembrance business with her sister Patty, where they made teddy bears from loved one’s clothing known as Forget Me Not Memory Bears. She was an avid baker. She was known to always bring her famous chocolate chip cookies to all family events. She enjoyed traveling and especially cruising with her companion Michael all over the world. Barbara was an extremely compassionate person and would go out of her way to help her relatives and friends whenever possible.

Barbara is survived by her children, Chris Cunningham of Cary, IL and Cheri Miroballi of Algonquin, IL.; her siblings, Ron (Janna) Gordon, Mark (Jennifer) Gordon and Patty (Ed) Hauth; and her longtime companion for over 30 years, Michael Hairlich. She was also an aunt and great-aunt to many. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Thomas Gordon.

Cremation rites were accorded privately.

 A "Celebration of Life" gathering for Barbara is being planned and will be announced at a later date.

Online condolences me be expressed to the family by clicking on Tribute Wall.

Arrangements entrusted with Willow Funeral Home & Cremation Care in Algonquin, Illinois.

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