SUN LAKES, Ariz. - Walter W. "Walt" Hunt, 80, passed away on March 17, 2002.

He was born in Alberta, Canada, on Sept. 12, 1921. Walter grew up in Piltzville. He attended Bonner Grade School and Missoula County High School, where he graduated in 1939. He then attended Missoula Business College.

Walter served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Upon his return to civilian life, he began working in the insurance field. In 1946 Walter founded the Sullivan and Hunt Agency with Patrick Sullivan, who handled the real-estate division. Walter was an active and respected member of the Missoula business community until his retirement in 1984.

Walter led a long and full life. He was a member of the Missoula Moose Lodge, where he served two terms as governor and was instrumenta1 in building their new lodge after an extensive fire in the old lodge. Walter was also a member of the Missoula Elks. He was an original member of the Missoula Sheriff's Posse and was very active with the Missoula Timberjack baseball team. Walter loved to spend his days golfing at the Missoula Country Club and was a founder of the annual Powwow Golf Tournament.

Walter married Joyce Disney in January 1976. They traveled extensively in their motor home with friends for many years. They retired in Sun Lakes.

Walter is survived by his loving wife Joyce. He is also survived by three children from a former marriage, Ginger Hanson and Debbie Fite, both of Las Vegas, and William Hunt of Helena. Walter has six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He leaves five stepchildren, 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Walter is also survived by his brother Ernest Hunt of St. Ignatius and sister Edith Sasse of Anaheim, Calif.

At Walter's request, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Walter's memory may be made to Neighbors Who Care, 25808 S. Parkside Drive, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248.

Arrangements are entrusted to Valley of the Sun Mortuary, 10940 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, Ariz.; 480-895-9232.

Sent by Debbie Fite