Cindy Lou Muninger, 67, of Chanute, Kansas, passed away on January 7, 2026, in the town where her story began and which always held her heart.
Born on August 15, 1958 in Chanute, Cindy found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: a fishing pole in her hand near the water, warm sunshine on her skin, and the scent of freshly- baked snickerdoodles in her kitchen.
Cindy leaves behind a family who will carry her laughter, love, and lessons forward: her mother, Thelma Ann Muninger; brothers Benny Muninger, Jr. and Larry Muninger; sisters Lydia Morris and Ruby Philbern; her son, Andrew Holmes; her daughter, Chanelle Gontarz; and her treasured grandchildren Natalie Holmes, Kinder Holmes, and Michael Gontarz, who brought her endless pride and joy. She is preceded in death by her father, Benny “Bo” Muninger, Sr.
Cindy’s life was one of quiet strength, warmth, and generosity. She will always be remembered for her devotion to her family, for her love of the outdoors, and in the way she always found time for others. While Cindy opted to forgo a service celebrating her life, the family hopes everyone who knew her will take a moment to remember her fondly. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Chanute Public Library: 111 N. Lincoln Ave., Chanute.
