Farewell to an 'Old Gunner': Slim Cunningham

The Dunedin funeral service for recently passed 11583 WO1 (rtd) Ian Herbert (Slim) Cunningham was well attended by former South Island gunners, regular and territorial. Slim's service was held on Oct 28 and he was in his early 80's. He initially joined the RNZN in the early 1950’s and served in the gunnery branch both here and in Korea before joining the RNZA.  He then went on to serve in Malaya as a Bombardier with the ‘Originals’ in that Battalion's mortar platoon. Later, during the 60's he served two tours in Vietnam as Battery Guide.
Here in NZ he continued to instruct gunners, officers and young, eager beaver cadets, in the fine and delicate craft of gunnery. (Sometimes, for a few of us, those teachings were accompanied by a well-aimed boot to the darker regions but one never forgot his lessons!) Slim was acknowledged for his good sense of humour, never bearing a grudge and for his knowledge and advice.  Fittingly a number of people with Gunner affiliations passed on messages that were read at the service. Included were Tiny Hill who described Slim as his ‘right-hand man” during the former's term as 161 Bty BSM and Graeme Black, who expressed his respect for Slim’s knowledge and friendship. Graeme Henderson and Lox Kellas were also on hand. Former RNZIR stalwart Fred Daniels read the RSA tribute.
During the past four years Slim battled with the effects of a severe illness but, no surprise here, never complained. According to family his only comment when they enquired as to his health was, "Old age isn't what it's cracked up to be!" As an aside, for those who know Ethne, Slim’s wife, she is well and was surrounded by her and her husband's supportive whanau.
Go well Mr Cunningham. Much respect!
Pete Christian