Mike
Ode' to Mom
1930-2013
Genevieve "Ms. Genni" Cecelia Page
The roaring 20's were ending and the era of depression was headed for the United States. Francis and Emills Cunningham of Niagara Falls NY had hope and were blessed with a beautiful baby girl named Genevieve. Later they were again blessed with her beloved brother Jerome. He passed away at a very young age while serving in the US Navy.
As a young girl growing up in the depression era she developed a love of family, animals and the outdoors.
In her teens years she lived in North Carolina. Becoming a true "southern belle" she had a love of God, family and her country. Her hero at the time was Amelia Earhart. While other teens were learning how to drive cars, she was taking lessons of another kind. When she turned 20 she completed her first solo flight! She could legally fly an airplane before she could "legally" drive a car.
In her late 20's she joined the US Air Force which eventually became an avenue to Hawaii. In Hawaii she attended the University of Hawaii and later met her best friend and love of her life, George Page.
With dreams of one day returning to Hawaii they settled in a modest and happy life in New England. Together they raised their son Michael and daughter Joyce. She felt so blessed to have, 3 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren along with several nieces and nephews all of whom she considered special and loved. Known as Mrs. P she became 2nd mom to a select few, she loved ya Jim. Looking for the good in people she would often take in friends or family who needed a place to stay, hot meal or just a someone to talk with. She worked over 20 years of civilian service and was an accomplished seamstress, later reenlisting in the Army Reserve.
In the early 80's she and George returned to Hawaii to live their dream. Working for officer records at Fort Derusey, Fort Shafter and then Schofield Barracks. They were so happy to be living in Hawaii. In 1991, she lost George from illness related to his service in the USMC from several tours during the Viet Nam war. In 1996 she moved in with Michael and his family. In 2008 after experiencing a heart aneurism she retired with 24 years working for the US Army and with 5 Years active duty for the US Air Force. She was very happy living here in Hawaii and to have served our country with such pride, dedication and honor.
When Jesse (our very helpful funeral director) and I met to discuss moms arrangements, she was very moved. Moved so much that Jesse enlisted in US Army and thought of "Ms. Genni" as her recruiter!
A daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, patriot and a friend to all whom she encountered. Loved by many missed by more, your life and love will never be forgotten.
Let your spirit soar high Ms. Genni as you're now free of all the burdens, pains and sufferings of this world. Mom, We love you, thank you and now is your time to rest in peace.
