Natalie E. Cunningham

Natalie Louise (Ensign) Cunningham was born in Battle Creek, MI, on September 13, 1938, the first child of Winfield Scott and Gretchen McKinstry Ensign.  She died on December 20, 2015, due to Alzheimer’s disease, passing peacefully in the comfort of her own bed.  Her parents, her brother Tod Ensign, and her ex-husband Charles Cunningham all preceded her in death.  She is survived by her son Scott Cunningham, son Ken Cunningham, daughter-in-law Kathy Cunningham, granddaughter Kiana Cunningham, her devoted partner of 29 years Gregory Bergmark, her sister Deborah Ensign, sister-in-law Francine Smilen, and niece Rachel Ensign,

       Natalie attended University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI, and graduated in 1960 with a BA in Education.  She met “Chuck” at U of M, they married in 1960, and settled in Ann Arbor.  Natalie was a loving, devoted wife and mother.  She was active in the Ann Arbor Unitarian Church and continues to have many close friends there.  She received her MA in Education in 1976 from Eastern Michigan University.

        The family moved to Albuquerque, NM, in 1977.  Natalie was a Special Education Teacher in APS for 25 years, retiring as head of the SE department at Hayes Middle School in 2002.  She enjoyed teaching, and loved children in general.  She became especially charmed with children during her Alzheimers disease; one of her favorite pastimes became going to the Zoo and watching the children.
      
       Natalie was known for her cheery demeanor, warmth, friendliness and big, bright smile.  She loved nature, enjoying gardening, hiking, camping and traveling.  She also loved to spend time with her family and friends.  

       As a dedicated humanitarian she involved herself in numerous volunteer and community service activities her entire life, including active service during much of her more than 38 years as a member of the Albuquerque First Unitarian  Church.

       Her family would like to express our genuine gratitude to the wonderful, caring people at “A Love For Life” residential assisted living, where Natalie last resided.  

        In lieu of flowers, please send donations in her name to the First Unitarian Church of Albuquerque or to Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains.

Her memorial service, followed by a reception, will be held on Saturday, January 9th, 2016, at 2:00 pm, at the First Unitarian Church of Albuquerque at 3701 Carlisle Blvd, NE, 87110.