Roger Howard Hunt passed away suddenly on April 15, 2018 on the grounds of the Tacoma Yacht Club. Roger was born in Seattle on September 2, 1944 to Howard Elton and Ada Elizabeth Hunt and grew up in Everett, Washington, spending his summers on Whidbey Island.
Roger studied at the University of Oregon, earning a degree in Biology, and later a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. Roger remained a devoted Duck fan throughout his life.
In 1967, Roger enlisted in the Army’s Officer Candidate School and ultimately achieved the rank of First Lieutenant, before his assignment to the Military Assistance Command in Vietnam where he served as an advisor to the South Vietnamese Army. After three campaigns, Roger was commended with the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device for placing himself directly in danger to protect the lives of those in his company. Roger was also awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation and Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with the Palm Unit Citation.
After his honorable discharge from the Army, Roger started a family and raised two daughters, Laura and Heather Hunt, who gave him great joy, loved him very much and will always remember the advice he gave them.
Roger joined the Weyerhaeuser Corporation where he managed many mills throughout the country, eventually becoming the area manager for Oregon and later Washington. He made many lifelong friends at Weyerhaeuser including his beloved wife Gloria, whom he married on August 17, 2002.
Roger is best known for his extensive contributions to the Federal Way community and beyond. His service included providing boating expeditions for people with special needs and active service with local nonprofit groups including FUSION, Center Stage, The Coos Bay Arts Museum, and even the Tacoma Police Department, among others. Roger was particularly dedicated to Rotary, where he was recognized as Rotarian of the Year in 2013. His service impacted the lives of many, many people.
Roger had many hobbies in his life, including annual ski trips with friends over 25 years, cycling, and birding. Roger and Gloria shared a zest for travel, adventure, and sharing experiences with family and friends.
Roger will always be remembered by his beloved wife Gloria, his daughter Laura and her husband Chris, his daughter Heather and her husband Nate, his brother Geoffrey and wife Teresa, his stepson Darren, and his stepson Alex and his wife Pavla, as well as more friends and colleagues than we will ever know due to his kindness and energy in helping others.
A celebration of his service and life is planned for Sunday, April 22, 1:00 – 4:00 PM at the Foss Waterway Seaport in Tacoma. All are welcome.
