Obituary of James "Jim" Edward Hunter

HUNTER, James “Jim” Edward - Age 71, passed away peacefully at home with his loving family by his side, after a courageous battle with cancer on January 28, 2016. Born in Caterham, England he was a son of the late Claude and Doris Hunter. Jim was a loving husband to wife Nancy, and father to their children, Tammy (George) Conistis, Travis (Amy) Hunter, Tom (Jennifer) Hunter and beloved son, Todd who passed tragically at the age of 10. He will be deeply missed by his nine grandchildren, Kyle, Hayley, Cali, Todd, Allie, Olivia, Brady, Ty and Ava; brother, Robert (Connie) Hunter; sisters Charmaine McInnis, and Susan (Bill) Snow; several nieces and nephews. Jim was predeceased by his brother, Thomas Hunter (in infancy) and his brother-in-law and friend, John McInnis. With a desire to serve his country, at the age of 17 Jim enlisted in the Canadian Navy in June 1962, retiring after 30+ years of service as a Chief Petty Officer 1st Class. Hockey was one of his greatest passions, and he was one of several key individuals who brought the ‘Penguins’ back to East Hants Minor Hockey in the late 70s. He dedicated himself to coaching and developing young men into talented and respected hockey players. Forever a Montreal Canadiens fan, we know Jim will be faithfully cheering on his Habs and his East Hants Penguins family from heaven. Dad had a commanding presence in all of our lives. A direct and straight shooter, he believed strongly in family, a hard days work, and living life to the fullest with his guitar and a beer in hand. An avid gardener, if you couldn’t find him at the rink, he was in his backyard tending to his beautiful garden. Dad’s call to the water remained long after his retirement from the Navy, and he spent many more years sailing on his boat, Touchwood, and enjoying cruises with his wife, Nancy - always planning the next best cruise before the current one was finished! The family would like to thank the VON and Palliative Care team of Colchester East Hants for their exceptional care and guidance during this trying time, with special thanks extended to Dawn Ross, RN and Dr. David Henderson. Cremation has taken place. Visitation 6-9 pm Sunday, Jan 31 in Ettinger Funeral Home, 2812 Highway 2, Shubenacadie. Funeral 11am Monday, Feb 1, in St. Bernard’s Church, Enfield, Father Michael Walsh officiating. Donations may be made to the VON or Colchester East Hants Palliative Care team. Condolences, words of comfort and memories of Jim may be shared with the family at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com