Obituary of Donald Hunt

Donald Wayne Hunt

Sept. 6,1959 ~ April 12, 2025

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Donald Wayne Hunt on April 12, 2025, in hospital, after a lengthy illness. He was 65.
Born in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. as the fourth of five boys to the late John Hunt and Nancy Marie (Carson) Hunt, Donny, as those of us who loved him called him – although he often signed off as “The Donald”, or “Little Donny” – was the beloved husband of Ingrid (nee Kroeff).
Together the couple raised two beautiful daughters. His girls were his pride and joy.

He could and did talk to them about anything, and through the guidance and the strength and the wisdom of their parents, they grew into strong and successful women.

Kayla and her husband Nate Nettleton – or Nathaniel as Donny would playfully greet him with a strong handshake and loud, exaggerated English accent; and Constable Erica Barrett and her husband Andrew each have a boy and a girl: Kai and Mara Nettleton; and Wes and Navy Barrett. Given more time and better health, he would have been an amazing grandfather.

We know this because he was a wonderful brother to John, Pat, Bill and Bob. He had a wit and a wisdom that we all loved and we will all miss. He was the heartbeat of our family.

He was a beloved and cherished uncle to too many kids to list here. He never forgot how to be a kid himself, and that might have been his greatest gift. He had many: a big heart, a beautiful soul, a creative mind…too many others to list here.
One of his nieces summed him up best: He was special, funny and cool.

Many thanks to the doctors and nurses who cared for him through several years of declining health. He, and we, appreciate you all.

A Celebration of Don’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 22nd from 12:00 Noon – 3:00 p.m. Words of Remembrance at 1:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Services, 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa.  All who knew and loved him are welcome to join us in remembering the laughter, warmth, and light he brought into our lives.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that you consider making a donation to a charity of your choice—something that would have made Donny smile.