Leola M. Deisher was born July 11, 1929, to Samuel and Dorothy Deisher. She grew up in Illinois. She met Patrick Cunningham and they were married August 28, 1948 and later moved to Fargo. In 1968, they owned Jacobson Carpet Cleaners while Leola worked as a receptionist and a homemaker as well.

Leola enjoyed gardening, embroidery, reading, and bingo. She had a great love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was known as the “Gambling Grandma” with her daughter Pam. She made the best apple pies and was famous for her great cooking.

Leola died at Sheyenne Crossings in West Fargo, ND, on October 21, 2013.

She is survived by her sons: Steve (Vivian), Bluffton, SC: Jeff (Paulene), Barnesville, MN; and daughter, Pam (Don) Symanietz, West Fargo, ND; four grandchildren: Jeremy, Sarah, Cody, and Katie; two great-grandchildren: Jacob and Gavin; and sister, Joann (Robert) Michels, Olney, IL..

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Patrick; and sister, Bonnie Prichett.