Hunter W. Passmore

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Hunter William Passmore, 96, of Manchester, Connecticut, on March 18, 2025. A decorated Army veteran, dedicated educator, and lifelong learner, he will be remembered for his kindness, curiosity, and love of adventure. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished time with his family. His legacy of wisdom, integrity, and dedication to others will be deeply missed. Hunter was born on April 27, 1928, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the late LTC George Passmore and Winifred Smith Passmore. The family later moved to Storrs, Connecticut, when his father was assigned to the University of Connecticut as the Professor of Military Science and Tactics. Hunter attended Windham High School in Willimantic for two years before transferring to St. John's Military Academy in Delafield, Wisconsin, where he graduated in 1946. That summer, he entered the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating with the class of 1950. During his 20-year career in the U.S. Army, Hunter served around the world, fueling his lifelong love of travel. His assignments took him to Germany, Korea, France, and Vietnam. He was an Army Ranger, Company Commander, Aide-de-Camp, and Manpower Officer, earning both the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star. He retired in 1970 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Following his military service, Hunter earned a master's degree from the University of Connecticut and spent two decades teaching mathematics at Windham High School. He developed an early interest in computers and was among the first to own a personal computer-the Osborne. In 1973, Hunter married Barbara K. Wright of Locust Valley, New York. They met while skiing in Stowe, Vermont, and became active members of the Manchester Ski Club, spending weekends at the clubhouse in Ludlow, Vermont, and skiing at Okemo. Their love of skiing took them on trips to Colorado, Utah, and Calgary. Hunter's many passions included playing handball at West Point, golfing with the Manchester Seniors, hiking and camping with Barbara and their sons, and gardening at home and the Manchester Senior Center. He founded the Senior Net computer program at the Manchester Senior Center, volunteered as an AARP tax preparer, managed finances for Boy Scout Troop 25, and taught leathercraft at Camp Kirkham. A dedicated genealogist, he spent years researching family history-first in cemeteries and libraries and later using computers to trace his ancestors. An art enthusiast, Hunter enjoyed visiting museums and was a talented artist himself. He painted a self-portrait, captured scenes from a Chicago zoo, and dabbled in watercolors. He was also an avid photographer, always bringing his camera to garden tours. In quieter moments, he loved reading mystery novels and watching Westerns. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at LiveWell in Plantsville, Connecticut, for their compassionate care. Hunter is survived by his wife, Barbara; his sons, Eric and John; his daughters-in-law, Christina Chiu and Deirdre McConnell; his grandchildren, Ida, Reed, and Mila Passmore; his niece, Kendal Passmore; his nephews, Ed Passmore, Dan Rhee, Mike Rhee, and Robert Passmore; and many cherished friends. Family and friends may visit at the Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main Street, Manchester, on Monday, March 24, 2025, from 2-4 p.m. Visiting hours will conclude with remembrances and military funeral honors. Memorial donations may be made to LiveWell at 1261 South Main St, Plantsville, CT 06479, or Boy Scout Troop 25 at 11 Center Street, Manchester, CT 06040. To leave on-line condolences, please visit www.holmeswatkins.com