Paul J. Cunniff, age 96 of Lutz, Florida passed away on July 5, 2012 surrounded by his children.  He was born in Boston, Massachusetts where he grew up as the son of the late Mark and Gertrude Cunniff.  He is predeceased in life by his wife Ruth A. (Judd) Cunniff and his sister, Rita (Cunniff) Cavanar.
On June 15, 1941, he married Ruth Judd at Sacred Heart Church in Roslindale, Massachusetts.  He was the loyal husband to Ruth for 70 years.  A decorated veteran, he was a member of the 8th Air Force stationed in England during WWII.
He was as passionate about sports as he was about life and particularly the Celtics, Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots and most of all any team from his beloved alma mater, Boston College.  Though his Air Force career took him well beyond his Boston roots, his heart remained in his hometown.
He returned to Lutz, FL in 1980 and has been an active member of St. Mary's Church for over 30 years. Paul's family and friends fondly remember his devotion to his church and his love of his family.  He was a man of reflection, intellect and uncompromising moral fiber.  His wisdom and wit will be greatly missed by his friends and family.
He is lovingly remembered by his son Paul Cunniff, (Maureen), Kathy Lacey (Joe) and Bob Cunniff.  He will be missed by his grandchildren:  Cynthia Cunniff, Kristen Lacey, Erin Cunniff-Vaccaro, Shannon Lacey as well as his great-grandchildren Courtney Vaccaro, Joseph Vaccaro, Jocelyn Cunniff-White, Hudson Rodriguez and Daxton Rodriguez.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Monseignor Robert Morris at St. Mary's Church, Lutz, Florida on Saturday, July 7, 2012 at 10:30am. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia (Washington, D.C.)
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donation to Gulfside Hospice Zephyrhills, Florida.

"ENTRUSTED INTO OUR CARE"
MacDonald Funeral Home