Howard W. Hunter

MANCHESTER -- Howard W. Hunter, 82, died Sept. 4, 2009, at Villa Crest Nursing Home.

He was born in Newton, Mass., on Dec. 14, 1926, to Wilbur W. and Marion B. (Howard) Hunter. He was raised in Waltham, Mass., and graduated from Waltham High School. He received an associate's degree from Stockbridge School at the University of Massachusetts in 1952 and received a bachelor's of science degree in agriculture the University of New Hampshire in 1972.

He married Elizabeth J. Stiles in 1953; she died in 2003. He was an Army Veteran of World War II and a member of American Legion Post 91, Candia. He worked as a custodian at the University New Hampshire and for 10 years at Saint Anselm College.

He was a lifelong supporter and troop committee member of the Boy Scouts of America. He resided in Manchester since 1984 and was a member of First Congregational Church.

IN HIS LIFE: For 22 years, Howard and Betty resided in Candia, where they raised four children, Sharon H. Stiles (Benjamin) of Southbury, Conn., daughter Sarah; Jocelyn H. MacDonald (Jeffrey) of Manchester, daughter Kelli, grandson Caimin Eaglin, son Kyle; Daniel P. Hunter of Gorham, Maine, sons Ian, Andrew, daughter Abigail; Alison Hunter (John McMahon) of Bow; also survived by a favorite cousin, Margaret Adams of West Lebanon; nieces & nephews.

He was a member of the Heel & Toe Square Dance Club for more than 35 years, (Betty & Howie met on the square dance floor at UMass). A lover of geography, he traveled the world with his wife. Highlights include, the Great Wall of China, Panama Canal, Israel, England, Australia, Alaska, Hawaii, the trail of Lewis & Clark, across the United States and a 50th wedding anniversary cruise with his children and grandchildren in 2003. He loved airplanes and hanging out at the airport, loved trains and riding them all over the world, loved learning and continued to take college courses (for the knowledge of it) into his 70s. A lifelong Celtics fan with his idol being Bob Cousy, Howard played basketball into his 60s. He also rooted for the Red Sox.

A recycler before it was vogue, his motto was "Use it up, Wear it out, Make it do." During his time in assisted living at Villa Crest, he started a recycling program among the residents, with the proceeds going to the recreation fund. A karaoke fan, particularly loving big band tunes (especially Glenn Miller), he could always be found tapping his feet to the beat. A generous supporter of the underdog and greatly enjoyed any time with his family.

SERVICES: Calling hours will be Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Goodwin Funeral Home, 607 Chestnut St., Manchester. The funeral service will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m. in First Congregational Church, 508 Union St., Manchester. The Rev. Stephen Washburn and The Rev. Barbara Brawley will officiate. A graveside service with military honors will follow at Holbrook Cemetery, Candia. Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, 360 Route 101, Bedford 03110 or Betty & Howie Hunter Summer Camp Scholarship Fund, c/o First Congregational Church, 508 Union St., Manchester 03104. Please visit www.goodwinfh.com to sign the online guest book.