Eugene L. Hunt

Eugene L. Hunt Jr., 88, of Bucyrus, passed at his home Saturday, April 9, 2022.



He was born September 12, 1933 in Caledonia to the late Eugene Sr. and Daisy Marie (Harrell) Hunt. While in high school, Gene loved playing football and was regarded as an all-around talented player. Following his high school graduation, Gene joined the Navy and had a goal of retiring from the service. Though his plans changed, Gene was proud of his time spent serving this country. On April 6, 1957, he married, Sarah M. Salhaney and they shared 57 years of marriage until her passing in 2014.



Gene had a work ethic like no other and this was to better his family. Several years were spent at Swan Rubber and if an extra shift became available, Gene was glad to help out. During these years, he also operated, Midwest Sandblasting with his dad and brothers. Eventually, Gene’s back gave out and he retired.



Gene spent years of boxing and was a rather talented fighter. He and a couple of his brothers competed in and around the central to north central Ohio area and he gained quite a name for himself in the ring. He was also a pretty good tennis player and loved competing in area leagues and tournaments. Gene eventually hung up his boxing gloves and later learned to enjoy the game of golf which provided him relaxation. Another relaxing hobby of his was hunting for arrowheads and he spent many hours walking fields in the Marion and Caledonia area. He gave many of his treasured finds as gifts to family but also sold them along with other things at area flea markets including the fairgrounds in Tiffin. Of all those things that consumed his life, Gene was happiest being with his family and grandchildren. He proudly taught them what he had learned in life and loved every moment they shared together. Gene loved following Cleveland and OSU sports teams and in more recent years, he looked forward to his trips to The Hollywood Casino in Columbus.



He will be missed by his three children, Michael (Cheryl) Hunt, Kathy Hunt and Sandra (Paul) Saunders; two grandchildren, Jennifer (Chandler) Bell and their daughter, Rowan and Brett (Allie) Hunt and their children, Xander and Asher; siblings, Charlotte VanArsdall and William “Bill” Hunt as well as other extended family members. He was preceded in death by six siblings.



Gene will be privately laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery. If desired, donations can be made payable to the Humane Society serving Crawford County and will be accepted through Wise Funeral Service. Expressions of sympathy are encouraged to be shared on his tribute page.