Obituary of Francis B. Hunt
ALBANY – Francis B. “Fran” Hunt, 88, died Thursday, May 23, 2024.
A native of the South End of Albany, he was son of the late Francis B. and Catherine “Kate” Hunt, and was a graduate of the former St. Ann’s Academy. A U.S. Army Veteran, Fran proudly served his country in the 25th Infantry Division, popularly known as “Tropic Lightening”, and was stationed at Schofield Barracks, Oahu, Hawaii, where he attained expert marksman status.
Fran was employed for many years as a lineman at Niagara Mohawk. Working his way up and through the chain, he trained many employees as an expert in the field and was very proud of their safe work.
Fran’s family and friends knew him to be an entertaining jokester. His lively and great sense of humor brought laughter and entertainment to any gathering or social setting. He produced priceless woodworking pieces of art, and was a handyman who could fix anything. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, golfing, camping and fishing. In his younger years, he achieved great status as an experienced bowler, and an all-star pitcher who was scouted by major league organizations. In retirement, he enjoyed wintering in Myrtle Beach for many seasons, visiting Disney World, and volunteering for many church and community events with his wife and family. He cherished the many special years he was able to be a full-time “Poppy” and babysitter to his precious grandchildren, Allison and Jeffrey, whom he adored and admired with great pleasure. Fran was also a man of faith, and was a communicant of St. Patrick’s Church in Ravena for many years.
Fran is survived by his wife of 27 years, Mary Dolores “Dee” Heenan Hunt; his daughters, Marybeth (Jim) Buhrmaster and Jennifer (Jeff) Hammond; his step-children, Diane Lytle, Mike (Lisa) Clayton, Donna (Mike) Shelton, and Dan (Carla) Clayton; eight grandchildren, Allison, Jeffrey, Nick, Kyle, Alexandra, Taylor, Rachel, and Ryan; three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Ruth Crewell; nephew, Eddie (Vicky) Wrobel; niece, Cathy (Jeff) Carleton; and several other nieces, nephews, cousins and a community of friends. In addition to his parents, Fran was predeceased by his sister, Rosemary Wrobel; and his brothers-in-law, Paul Crewell and Stanley Wrobel.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Mass on Tuesday, May 28th at 10:30 a.m. in St. Patrick’s Church, 21 Main Street, Ravena, followed by interment of his ashes with Military Honors in Calvary Cemetery, Glenmont. There are no calling hours. Memorial contributions to the Teresian House Foundation, Life Enrichment Activities Department, 200 Washington Ave. Ext., Albany, NY 12203, or to St. Patrick’s Church, 21 Main Street, Ravena, NY 12143 will be appreciated. Condolence page is available at ajcunninghamfh.com.