Amber Zaehringer Cunningham

Amber Zaehringer Cunningham of Boulder City, NV and Ouray, CO, passed away on March 11, 2026, at 43 years of age, after battling breast cancer for several years. She was first diagnosed in 2020 and fought her illness with unmatched courage, strength, and determination until the very end.

Amber is survived by Shane Cunningham and their four children, Taylor Ann, Dawson Zane, Victoria Alexis (Tori), and Avry Quinn; her mother, Katherine Jensen-Ord (Hinkson); her father, Peter Zaehringer; her three sisters, Megan (Matt), Amanda (Kory), and Rachel (Ben); her parents-in-law, Dennis and LeAnn Cunningham; her sister-in-law, Denise (Ron); her stepmother, Debbie Zaehringer; her stepfather, Jeff Ord; her grandparents, Faye and Roland Hinkson; and nine nieces and nephews, Kelsie, Mason, Kadence, Madison, Payton, Kaitlyn, Kaleb, Hailey, and Colton. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Shirley and Don Zaehringer.

Amber had a huge heart, welcomed everyone, and loved many others throughout her life, including her aunts, uncles, cousins, exchange students, foster children, and countless friends.

She was born on July 12, 1982, in Estes Park, CO. Her desire for adventure began at a young age, exploring the mountains of Ouray, CO, with her sisters and friends. As a teenager in Boulder City, NV, she embraced new challenges as a cheerleader and a runner in cross country and track, where she broke the school record in the 4x800. Her passion for life continued to grow as she traveled abroad as a foreign exchange student in Germany, where she fell in love with exploring Europe, learning a new language, and experiencing different cultures.

Shortly after high school, Amber met Shane, and they were married on December 29, 2001. Amber had a deep love for helping others and creating a welcoming home. In their early years of marriage, she and Shane opened their doors to many exchange students and foster children. She also volunteered her time to hold, rock, and comfort babies at an orphanage. She always dreamed of having a big family and found immense joy in raising her four children.

In addition to her love for family, Amber had a passion for learning and a deep respect for education. She graduated cum laude with an undergraduate degree in economics and a minor in communications, earned a Master’s degree in public administration, and was working toward a Master’s degree in Business Management from Harvard. She dedicated 21 years to the Bureau of Reclamation, primarily serving as a project manager, before stepping away to pursue her entrepreneurial dream. Amber became a proud business owner in Ouray, CO, where she lovingly owned, managed, and continually improved the Ouray Manor bed and breakfast, taking great pride in creating a warm, memorable experience for every guest who walked through her doors. Her entrepreneurial spirit reflected her creativity, work ethic, and passion for bringing people together.

When she wasn’t spending time with her family or pursuing her professional and educational goals, Amber enjoyed hiking, being with friends, and challenging herself physically through triathlons, 5K races, and even a marathon.

Despite being given a poor prognosis from the start, Amber faced her illness with unwavering optimism and resilience. In her final years, she embraced life fully through traveling extensively with her family, nurturing her friendships, and seeking out the beauty in the world around her. Her journeys took her to France, England, Scotland, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and throughout the United States. Yet, she often said her favorite place in the world was right at home, sharing quiet moments and snuggles with her children. She loved them deeply and was endlessly proud of each of them.

Her final days were spent attending her children’s sporting events, continuing her education, and rising early to watch the sunrise—simple moments that reflected a life lived with gratitude and intention.

Amber was a truly kind, unique, and remarkable soul who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

The Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 11:00 AM at 916 5th St, Boulder City, NV 89005, with a Celebration of Life occurring at 1:00 PM at the Multi-Use Building at 1204 6th St, Boulder City, NV 89005.