On Thursday, July 24th, 2025, Richard (Butch) Donald Hunter, age 84, walked into the arms of his Lord and Savior. He was born in Grantsburg, WI on May 16, 1941 to Richard (Dick) and Opal Hunter.

He grew up in the Grantsburg area, attended Grantsburg schools, and graduated in 1959. Butch worked in the furniture department at Northern Manufacturing until 1989 when he retired early due to health issues. In 1960, he married his high school sweetheart, Barbara (Olson), on New Years Eve and they were blessed with four children: Lonnie, Desiree, Shawn and Danielle. Butch had an extensive four-legged family who gave him great joy. He never saw a dog he didn’t want to pet!

Butch loved being outdoors and was an avid sportsman. If you could shoot it, stalk it, or catch it he wanted to do it! He spent countless hours in a tree stand, boat, or fish shack. Butch passed this love onto his family and mentored many young men over the years. These relationships lasted a lifetime and he treasured the memories of their first buck, record bass, or thrill of the hunt.

Ice fishing was another treasured past time. This winter, oxygen tank in tow, Butch was able to get on “Big Wood” one last time. The fishing wasn’t great but he loved every minute on the ice! His old red fish shack will always be a cherished place for family and friends. He made sure everyone was welcome.

In addition to hunting and fishing Butch loved attending auctions with Barb. They spent countless weekends at Gary and Rhonda Erickson’s auctions. He could not stand passing up a “good deal,” especially a fishing pole, shovel, or tool. A testimony that played out in 2017 when they downsized for their move to St. Croix Falls!!!

Being a grandpa and great grandpa brought Butch great joy. There is no shortage of “grandpa” stories and most included treats! Butch had a sweet tooth and would always share his stash of cookies, candy, Diet Coke, and whatever else he had. He also had a soft spot for sneaking treats to family pets -- even when asked not too!

About 10 years before he passed Butch gave his life to Jesus Christ. This was a life-changing decision and he never looked back. He loved attending church at New Hope Lutheran Church. He knew there was more than this world and looked forward to hearing the words “well done good and faithful servant.” His family rests in the knowledge that those that believe in Jesus will see him again.

Butch was preceded in death by his parents Richard (Dick) and Opal Hunter, sister, Beverly Swenson, niece, Karen Swenson, and in-laws, Urban and Maragaret Olson.

He leaves behind his wife, Barb, of 64 years, his children, Lonnie (Jim) Segelstrom, Desiree (Tim) Gundersen, Shawn Hunter, Danielle Hunter and grandchildren, Erik Segelstrom, Amy (Tyler) Burshem, Trista (Matt) Juntunen, Jason Gundersen, Aly (Bert Graham) Gundersen, Isis, Collyn, Ian, and Isaiah Hunter. Great grandchildren: Jayden Gundersen, Rory Juntunen, Watson and Waylon Graham.

A celebration of life will be held at New Hope Lutheran Church in Grantsburg, WI, at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 9, 2025. The visitation begins at 10:00 AM. Butch will be laid to rest at Union Cemetery in Atlas, WI.

Memorials preferred to: Samaritans Purse-OCC, Gideon’s Bibles, or American Cancer Society.

Last Update: Jul 31, 2025 7:24 am CDT