Richard W. Hunter, age 82 of Willowick, peacefully passed away December 29th, 2023 at Hillcrest Hospital surrounded by his family. He was born July 19th, 1941 in Cleveland to the late Wade and Jean Hunter.
Rich was a U.S Army Veteran. He was a retired Tool & Die Maker for P.O. McIntire Company in Wickliffe after 51 years of service. Rich was recognized as the Honorary Distinguished Citizen (Pat and Rich) of the year by Willoughby Rotary, the Wrestling Hall of Fame (nomination in progress) and the Euclid High School Sports Hall of Fame inductee for football, wrestling and track/field.
Rich never left his wife’s side and was inseparable for 60+ years. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Rich coached wrestling at the YMCA for 41 years, spanning generations. He created personal connections with kids and families that stood the test of time. He taught wrestling moves and life lessons that left lasting impressions on his youth wrestlers.
Rich traveled to Vero Beach, Florida during the winter months for the past 16 years. He loved his corvette and the time spent with his wife and dog Babe cruising. He enjoyed talking to people and taking a genuine interest in getting to know them. He had a joke for everyone. He also took pride in working out – he spent time at the fitness center in Cleveland and Vero Beach.
Rich was the loving husband for 60 years to Patty Hunter (nee Muscenti); beloved father of Wendy (Mike) Cefaratti, Tony (Linda) Hunter and the late Kimberly Hunter and Jeffrey (Sally) Hunter; devoted grandfather of Hailey and Dylan Hunter, Sophia and Lola Hunter, and Danielle (Mike) Reilly; brother of the late Linda Hamner; uncle to many nieces and nephews.
The Hunter family will receive friends from 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon Friday, January 5th, 2024 at Jeff Monreal Funeral Home, 1000 Mentor Ave., Painesville. A Funeral Service will be held at 12 Noon Friday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at All Souls Cemetery.
