Harvey E. "Gene" Hunter Sr.

Harvey "Gene" E. Hunter Sr., 83, of Runnells, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at his home surrounded by family.

Gene was born on August 29, 1942, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of Harry and Hildred (Roberts) Hunter Jr. He received his education in Runnells, where he graduated from high school. On September 11, 1964, he married Trudy Cornelison, and they made their home on the east side of Des Moines throughout their married life.

Gene was employed by Titan Tire (formerly Armstrong Tire) for 38 years and later worked for the Des Moines Art Center. He proudly served his country in the National Guard.

Gene was also one of the largest honey producers in the state of Iowa. Along with his brother Harry, he owned and operated Hunter's Honey and at one time managed over 1,000 colonies.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Trudy; two brothers, Robert and Harry Jr.; and his sisters, Genevieve Wheeler, Jeanette Maddison, Patricia Daniels, Shirley Bos, and Frances Waterman.

Gene is survived by his children, Shawn (Teresa), Don (Barbara), Charlene (Kris), and Harvey Jr. (Susan); seven grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and his sister, Florence Cooper.

Memorial services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Des Moines First Church of God, 4201 East Douglas, Des Moines 50317, with visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m. There will be a luncheon and fellowship following the service. Burial will take place at a later date at Rising Sun Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Cutty's Campground 2500 southwest 37th St, Grimes IA 50111.

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