William (Bill) R. Hunter 86 of Swanzey died on Friday afternoon at Monadnock Community Hospital in Peterborough after a long illness.
He was born the son of Anna (Carol) and William R. Hunter on October 2, 1922 in Highland Mills, NY.
Bill was educated locally and enlisted in the U.S. Navy on December 13, 1942. He worked as an Aviation Metalsmith repairing sea planes and planes on aircraft carriers. He attained the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class before being honorably discharged on January 3, 1946. Petty Officer 3rd class Hunter was a WWII veteran.
Mr. Hunter took his vows on September 11, 1970 in the Amity Church at Pine Island NY. to Miss Betty Brooks. Fitzwilliam became home for the Hunters in 1985. They lived there for 17 years before moving to Swanzey to be closer to there son.
Bill enjoyed bowling as a young man. He was an avid stamp collector. He enjoyed woodworking and enjoyed a good book. The family would take long Sunday drives and enjoy time together.
Mr. Hunter is survived by his wife of almost 39 years, Betty Hunter. Pops will be missed by his only son Todd Hunter and his wife Stephanie of Swanzey. He also leaves three siblings; Cora Krom of Swanzey, Donald Hunter of Swanzey and Robert Hunter and his wife Barbara of Highland Mills, NY. Mr. Hunter is predeceased by a sister Margaret Hunter. His presence will be missed by his several nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.
Calling hours will occur at 10am. on Saturday with a celebration of life service to follow at 11am. All in the funeral home. Burial will follow with full military honors at Mountain View Cemetery, Rt. 32 South, Swanzey. Flowers will gladly be accepted. However the family would prefer donations be made in memory of William R. Hunter to the Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave. Fl. 17, Chicago, IL.60601 or to the Pheasant Wood Nursing Home. Pheasant Rd. Peterborough, NH. 03458. Services are under the direction of Cheshire Family Funeral Home 46 South Winchester St. Swanzey, NH. www.cheshirefamilyfuneralhome.com
