Allan R. Runge, age 85, a long-time Wilmington resident, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2019, surrounded by his loving family.
Allan was the beloved husband of the late Joan M. (Sweatt) Runge, devoted father of Cynthia Runge and her husband Gary Cunha of Reading, loving “Papa” of Thea Louise Cunha. Cherished son of the late Louis and Mildred (Campbell) Runge, dear brother of the late Louis “Buddy” Runge and Charlotte Monty. Allan is survived by several nieces and nephews: Deborah Monty of NH; Ellen Lurie of Florida; Leslie Runge of Nevada; Monique Cote of North Carolina; and by David, Thomas and Robert Potter of Massachusetts. Allan is also survived by friends he made at the Last Corner Restaurant in Reading, Massachusetts over the past forty years, and at the many yard and estate sales he frequented throughout his life.
Allan loved antiques and always dreamed of finding a hidden treasure. He was a quiet man with a warm and gentle way that endeared him to all. Allan loved traveling to Montreal, Canada over the Thanksgiving holidays, which he did with family for many years. He also enjoyed his trip to England, France and Italy in the 1980’s, where he particularly enjoyed the catacombs and bus tour of Rome. Allan loved driving and he knew how to get anywhere, without GPS or Waze.
The light of his life was his granddaughter, Thea. Every day before school, he wished her to have a “Happy Day.” His family was blessed to have him with them and he will be sorely missed.
Family and friends will gather for a funeral service at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave (Route 62), Wilmington, on Tuesday, May 7th at 11:00 a.m. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington. Visiting hours will be held at the Funeral Home on Monday, May 6th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Allan proudly served the United States Marine Corps, during the Korean War.
Allan retired as a salesman from Federal Express following many years of dedicated service to the company.
Cindy, I’m so sorry to see of your dads passing.
He was a very good man in his life on earth.
I know that even my parents are welcoming him to Heaven…..
May you find peace in knowing that your dad touched & inspired many lives.
I hope you always keep the positive thoughts & memories of your dad…..
May he rest in peace for all eternity…..
Dear Cindy,
I am so sorry for your loss. Please let me know if I could do anything to
help you. Debbie
Rest in peace mr. Runge
You were a great man and friend
You are forever remembered
Cindy,
My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Mr. Runge always showed kindness whenever he saw me and I loved to see his smile, which was always at the ready. My thoughts to Cindy and her family, your Dad was lucky to have you for his daughter!
Al was a gentle, kind man. We will miss him very much.
So sorry for your loss Cindy. Alan was a great neighbor and we all missed him when he moved to Reading. God Bless you and your family.
Cindy, I share with you in the pain over losing your beloved Father. My fond memories of him, that sparkle in his baby blue eyes, his bright smile and wisdom on many topics date back to when we were very young. His love for you, Gary and Thea ran deeper than words could express. He proudly served his country and raised an amazing, successful and talented daughter. My deepest sympathy for the loss of a great Father, Man and Pappa.