Michael Cunningham
Sept. 22, 1941-Jan. 1, 2026
San Rafael, California

Michael Cunningham died at his home in San Rafael, California on New Year’s Day at the age of 84.

Born in San Francisco, Michael was deeply rooted in the Bay Area where he received two degrees from Stanford University, raised a family on Christmas Tree Lane in Palo Alto and built a life defined by professional excellence, physical discipline and civic responsibility.

Michael had a long and distinguished career at Hewlett-Packard, both in Palo Alto and Edinburgh, Scotland. Beginning as an engineer in 1962, he rose through the organization into leadership roles within several business units and was known for his intelligence, dedication and integrity across decades of rapid technological change. He retired from HP in 1998 and he and his wife relocated to Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA.

Michael was a dedicated runner who completed several marathons including San Francisco, New York and Boston. He enjoyed biking, golf, tennis and avidly followed Bay Area sports teams. In addition, Michael was passionate about home improvement projects of all shapes and sizes, woodworking, reading biographies and learning the piano.

Michael was also committed to public service. During his retirement years in Carmel, he served as a community volunteer in the local arts, on the City Planning Commission and as an elected member of the City Council. He approached civic life with generosity, pragmatism, and a passion for leadership.

Above all, Michael was a devoted husband, brother, father and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Judith; sister Arleen and brother-in-law John; daughter Julie and her husband Vasilis; son Timothy and his wife Tracy and his three beloved grandchildren.

A private service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence at Stanford University (neurologyfund.stanford.edu).

Tags: business, public service