The Yakima Valley lost a former great athlete today 12-31-2018. Bruce Lee Hunter was born June 8, 1954 to parents Ralph W. Hunter and Ruth M. Hunter in Prosser, WA. His happy youth spent on the family farm brought precious times shared with an older sister and brother. In his younger years Bruce loved hunting and fishing with his brother Steve and brother-in-law Rod. He attended Prosser schools, graduating in 1972 and then on to YVCC. His sports ability started at a very young age with older brother and numerous cousins in the front yard. He was a three sport standout in football, baseball and basketball at Prosser High, and his senior year was awarded the Howard Wilson Inspirational Award as Prosser’s top athlete of the year. His sport venture continued at YVCC with baseball and Bruce was drafted twice by Pittsburg and once by Kansas City of MLB. When he was not playing baseball in the summertime he worked various wheat harvests on the Horse Heaven Hills. Even after college he loved playing softball with numerous teams and many friends throughout the valley.
Yakima also brought Pamela Ford into his life and they married April 12, 1986. This marriage brought his two beloved sons, Tyler Ralph Hunter in 1988 and Trevor Lee Hunter in 1993. He spent 30+ years with the gang at Keller Supply Co. and followed both his sons through childhood activities and sports. The birth of his only grandchild, Trenton, brought pride and joy to his loving heart. For years he spent numerous weekends with his brother Steve and sister-in-law Sandy playing golf and cards all night long. He became an avid fan of the Oregon Ducks, Seattle Mariners and Seattle Seahawks and was blessed to attend multiple games.
Bruce was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Ruth Hunter. He survived by son Tyler (Nicole Savage), grandson Trenton of Yakima; son Trevor of Portland, OR; sister and brother-in-law Ruby & Rod Bruns of Yakima; brother and sister-in-law Steve & Sandy Hunter of Hermiston, OR; nieces Rhonda Hutton and family of Yakima and Robyn Bruns-Harris (Derek) of Tumwater, WA; one aunt, numerous cousins and dear friends.
The family thanks North Star staff along with the Hospice & Cottage in the Meadow for their loving care.
At his request a family gathering only will be held at a later date. Dad, Bruce – we will always love and miss you and hold you in our hearts forever.
In lieu of flowers or to honor his memory, please consider a donation to Cottage in the Meadow, in care of Keith and Keith Funeral Home.
*Heaven has gained its cleanup hitter*
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18