Obituary: John (Johnny) R. Hunt

John (Johnny) R. Hunt

John (Johnny) R. Hunt

John (Johnny) R. Hunt of Prescott, Arizona, passed away March 30, 2019. He was born May 14, 1944, in Phoenix, Arizona, to Chester and Mary Hunt.

John was proceeded in death by his son, John T. Hunt, and the love of his life, Barbara. John is survived by his children, Michael Hunt (Gordon), Charin North (Brian), Jubal Hunt and Jennifer Vaglio; grandchildren, Jason, Amanda (Ben), Sabrina, Caroline, Kirsten, Shannon, Jordon, Jenae (Michael), Sarah, Jalen, Savanna (Kody) and Logan; and nine great-grandchildren. John is also survived by brother, Chester Hunt (Barbara); sister, Nancy Huddelston (Kenny); longtime companion, Jeanie Weekley; brother-in-law, Terry Price (Erv); and several nieces, nephews and cousins. John was proud of his Arizona heritage and enjoyed sharing stories of the area with family and friends, his story is no less interesting than those he shared. John was raised on a farm in Litchfield, Arizona, where his family raised cotton and citrus. In 1956 his parents bought the 7UP ranch in Camp Wood where he spent his early years cowboying and lion hunting. In the early 1960’s John moved to Prescott with his wife and two small boys, where they added two more children to their young family. John married Barbara Price in 1969 and together they had one daughter.

In Prescott John quickly mastered many trades in the Construction industry, and in 1971 John and Barbara partnered with lifelong friend and business partner, George Snelson, to start Hunt Construction. John was most proud of their work at the Grand Canyon, which included work on the Bright Angel and El Tovar hotels on the rim and Phantom Ranch in the canyon. In 1999 John partnered with Ed Ridder and started Ridder Concrete. Eventually John was able to return to his first loves, lion hunting, ranching and roping. He had may successful and rewarding adventures in all. John was a quick-witted charmer who was a mentor to many and loved sharing his vast knowledge.

He will be remembered for his generosity, loyalty, respect for the land and love for family and friends. A celebration of John’s life will be held on April 13 from 1-4 p.m., at the Prescott Rodeo Grounds. All are welcome to come help send this original cowboy off on his final ride! In lieu of flowers, please send donations to your favorite local charity (examples: Yavapai County Humane Society, Yavapai Casa Foundation, Prescott AYSO, Chino Valley Little League, Relay for Life Quad Cities, Yavapai Exceptional Industries”YEI”).

Information provided by survivors.


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