Robert J. Hunter

Robert J. “Bob” Hunter, 89, of Burnside, passed away at 4:05 PM Friday, November 5, 2021, at his home.

Bob was born January 27, 1932, the son of William and Mildred (Mesick) Hunter in Keokuk, Iowa.  He attended LaHarpe High School graduating in 1950.  At various times, Bob worked at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant in Burlington.  He attended Western Illinois Teacher’s College until his father’s illness made it necessary for him to take over the farm operation.  On September 18, 1953, he entered the United States Navy.  Bob received the highest score ever made in the Burlington area Naval Reserve unit (392 points out of 400) and one of the highest scores ever in the Naval District.  Bob was on the Battleship USS Iowa and traveled through much of Europe and some parts of Middle East and Guantanamo Bay.  He visited many museums and churches including the famous Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.  He also enjoyed skiing the alps and visiting many parts of Turkey.  He was known for gifting puzzle rings that he first discovered in Turkey.  He received his Honorable Discharge from the Navy on September 15, 1955.    

On July 18, 1959, he was united in marriage to Betty Aldrich at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Warsaw.  Bob then resumed his studies at Western Illinois University and received his Bachelor of Science in Education in 1961 and his Master Degree in the same discipline in 1965.  In addition to being a life-long farmer he taught in the LaHarpe school district for many years and also served as principal for the Fountain Green School.  He also enjoyed coaching.  He was a life-long member of the Burnside United Methodist Church.  Bob was baptized at the church at the same time his youngest son, J.B., was  baptized.

Robert is survived by his wife, Betty, of Burnside; three children, Beth (Mark), Bill (Debbie) and J.B. (Shelly); four grandchildren, Sarah (Chase), Ashton, Allison and Avery; one sister, Janet (Henry); and his dog, Bella.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Private family services will be held at Moss Ridge Cemetery in Carthage with Naval military rites.  Memorials may be directed to the Burnside United Methodist Church.  Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert J. Hunter, please visit our floral store.