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It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of William “Billy Bob” Hamel Cunningham, a man whose greatest treasure was his family. Bill passed away peacefully at his home in Kihei, Maui, on September 12, 2025, at the age of 78.
Born in Yuma, AZ, on October 29, 1946, to Margaret Cunningham, Bill spent his formative years in Modesto, CA, on his grandparents farm alongside sister Vicki and brother Marvin as well as a large extended family. After proudly serving in the Navy from 1964-1971. Bill built a strong professional life, working at Gallo Glass and in management for Montgomery Wards, before obtaining his GC license and launching his own company under his family name that held contracts for HVAC with Lorimar, United Artist Theatres, and larger malls throughout the State of California.
In Grass Valley, CA, Bill set down roots with his wife at the time, Gloria. He raised their daughters to be strong-self sufficient women and to enjoy the simple pleasures of camping, raising horses, and other outdoor activities. A true community man, he was a volunteer at the fire department, an active member of the local branch of the California 4-Wheel Drive Assoc., the Nevada County Horsemans, and the Elks. Often in the winters after larger snowfalls you would find him driving his restored 1942 Willys Jeep through the snow-covered roads assisting others that were stuck or using his small tractor to clear his neighborhood road.
In 1992, he relocated to Kihei, Maui. He continued in HVAC with Dorvin Leis and JECO Air. He could be found often enjoying Pau Hana in Kihei or golfing at the Emerald Course with friend Charles Rodriguez. The two looked like they could have been brothers in their snap-closing western shirts and jeans, and definitely felt like it to Bill and his family.
Bill was renowned for being the sweetest man you could ever meet. He didn't always outwardly show it, but anyone that encountered him knew his kind soul. His profound love and dedication to his family defined his life. He found his purest joy in time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved his family fiercely and would do anything for them leaving a legacy of warmth and unwavering support.
Bill is survived by three daughters who adored him: Pam Best of Grass Valley, CA; Janet Bartlett and her husband, Bill, of Leland, NC; Tina Cunningham of Kihei, HI.
He was a doting grandfather to:
Kayla Mattoon (Casey) of Grass Valley, CA; Courtney Best (Ty) of Grass Valley, CA; Jake Bartlett of Wilmington, NC
Great Grandfather to:
Hunter Mattoon of Grass Valley, CA, Brantley Mattoon of Grass Valley, CA. Bill was awaiting his 3rd great grandson due in November.
A celebration of Bill's life will be planned for friends and family in both Maui and Grass Valley later in 2026. Bill's family would appreciate and find comfort in others sharing their fond memories and anecdotes of Bill to his FaceBook Account.