Donald James Hunt

Donald James Hunt, age 78, of La Grande, died Thursday, January 25, 2007 at a local care facility. A memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 31, 2007 at Daniels Chapel of the Valley.

Mr. Hunt was born on November 25, 1928, the son of Thomas Edward and Katherine (Whalen) Hunt in The Dalles, Oregon. He spent his early school days in Boardman and the family later moved to North Powder where he graduated from North Powder High School. After graduation he joined the United States Army in 1947 and served during the Korean War. During his service to his country he was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor and Purple Heart. After his honorable discharge he made his home in La Grande. He joined the Oregon National Guard and served with them until his retirement in 1988. He worked for the West Coast GTE until his retirement in 1988. After his retirement he continued to work in the telephone industry by owning and operating DH Telcom for a few years.

Mr. Hunt married Kathleen K. Freels at the First Baptist Church in La Grande on November 26, 1966. He was very musical and played the piano, harmonica, drums and about any instrument available. He was best known for playing piano as part of a band that played for area dances. He was past organist and life member of the Grande Elks Lodge and Past Post Commander for the VFW. He was a strong supporter of the Blue Mountain Humane Association. He was also a 55 year member of the IBEW Union. He enjoyed the outdoors, working in his yard, his motorcycles and his dogs. In his younger years he broke horses. He loved watching sports, especially football.

Survivors include his wife, Kay of La Grande; step-son, Ryan Perin of Enterprise; son, Ron Hunt of York, Pennsylvania; daughter, Renee Ferguson of Gresham; granddaughter, Erica Perin; great granddaughter, Jayden Perin; and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by a son, Steven Hunt.

Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Mr. Hunt to the Blue Mountain Humane Association in care of Daniels Chapel of the Valley, 1502 7th Street, La Grande, Oregon 97850.