April 29th, 2021

It is with heavy hearts that the family of David John Hunter announce his sudden passing on April 29, 2021 at the RIH-ER in Kamloops.

Dave will be forever remembered by Bonnie, his loving wife of 46 years; daughters Jennifer Hunter (Angus Beaton) and Lana Hunter; granddaughter Claire Beaton; brothers Ron Hunter and Bob (Donna) Hunter, sister Carol (Ron) Dunlop; uncle Arthur (Elaine) Hunter and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Sadly, predeceased by his parents Bruce and Elinor Hunter; in-laws Grace and Norman Yaeger; uncle Lance and aunt Gladys McCormac; aunts Muriel Hunter and Edith Doucette; sister-in-law Lorraine Yaeger and nephew Ron Hunter Jr.

Dave was a man of many hats. From a farm boy, logger to land baron, Dave did it all (he even had a monogram shop where the whole family got involved). Growing up in Armstrong BC, he developed a love for the great outdoors and an endurance for hard physical labour. Being a lucrative farming community there was never a shortage of work.

Picking asparagus twice a day in the spring, picking fruit and harvesting hay throughout the season as well as helping out at Johnson’s pig farm. The work at Pridham’s dairy was not always a success; yes Dave, cows are quite sensitive to noise and quick movements…no milk today! Always wanting to help out and keep busy, he and Edith decided one day to wash and wax grandpa Willis Hunter’s brand new car with none other than floor wax!… quite the disaster.

After high school and summer holidays, time was spent with his dad as part of the logging crew (this he loved). Money was so good that he bought his first Olds Cutlass Sport! In 1969, Dave journeyed west to Vancouver to complete courses and start the BCIT Forestry program in the fall of 1970. There he met his Bonnie Loree (Yaeger) from Kelowna who was taking the Xray program. The year 1974 became the biggest change yet, with the start of his own logging company and an October wedding!

Two daughters Jenn (1977) and Lana (1980) arrived on the scene much to his delight. He was a loving and dedicated father, ensuring his girls experienced all the joys growing up (everything from camping and snowmobiling trips, making their own sling shots, woodworking and chores with dad). Many fun years were spent in Rayleigh, the best neighbourhood to raise kids in his mind. Good friends and neighbours were always there for numerous adventures. The year 2003 brought another move to Vernon to be closer to Bonnie’s mom. Living on the lake was a dream come true for the fisherman in him. His final years brought Dave and Bonnie to Chase BC; living a retired lifestyle.

Dave had a love of nature and creation. His creativity was evident in his woodworking creations and his artwork. Several of his family and friends have live edge wooden pieces to remember him by. Fishing was one of his favorite hobbies. Even a diagnosis of progressive MS in 2006 didn’t stop him from living life. He adapted and managed to continue enjoying these passions right until his final days.

Dave (dad) we are going to miss your positive outlook on life, genuine kindness, unconditional love, supportive nature, humble demeanor and of course the funny stories. We know how much you loved us; this will keep us strong. We will love and miss you forever more. Until we meet again.

You may express condolences by visiting Alternatives Funeral & Cremation.

 

 

 

 

• Date : 2021-04-29
• Location : Kamloops