CUNIN, JOHN (11 Sept. 1924-18 July 1993), who served as the chairman and chief executive officer of BEARINGS, INC., was also known for his involvement with numerous civic and charitable causes.
Cunin was born in Akron, the son of Earl and Mary (McAlonan) Cunin. He graduated from St. Vincent High School and then served in the Eight Air Force in Europe during WORLD WAR II. Afterwards he attended the University of Akron and JOHN CARROLL UNIVERSITY. He majored in business and marketing, but left before graduation.
In 1948, he began working at Bearings as an order clerk and advanced to salesman. In 1973, he became general sales manager and then president in 1980. He later served the company as chairman and chief executive officer from 1983 to 1989. Under his leadership the company expanded and its revenues doubled, making it the largest firm of its kind in the nation. After his retirement he served as a member of the board of directors--and returned to John Carroll University to finish his degree.
Cunin was a founder and director of the MIDTOWN CORRIDOR, INC. He also served as chairman of CLEAN-LAND, OHIO and of VOCATIONAL GUIDANCE SERVICES. He served as a trustee for numerous civic and humantarian organizations as well as on the board of CLEVELAND TOMORROW. He also served as the chairman of the Bruening Foundation (see EVA L. AND JOSEPH M. BRUENING FOUNDATION), a director of Society National Bank (see SOCIETY CORP.), and a trustee of John Carroll and NOTRE DAME COLLEGE OF OHIO.
He married Marilyn McGulgan in 1952. They had 5 children: John, Thomas, William, Mary Catherine, and Jane. Cunin died in CLEVELAND HEIGHTS and is buried at All Souls Cemetery, Chardon, Ohio.
Last Modified: 15 Jul 1997 01:16:44 PM- Related Article(s)