Christopher Hunter

With heavy hearts, we announce the tragic passing of Christopher Hunter, a beloved father, loving husband, friend, and pillar of strength to many, who left us far too soon. He passed away tragically at 67 years of age, but as a hero, sacrificing his life to protect his wife Donna from an oncoming vehicle.

Chris Hunter was born in Quincy, Massachusetts in 1957 to Finnish and Scottish / Irish parents. A proud Massachusetts native, Chris carried the heart and grit of his home state in everything he did. Whether cheering for his beloved Boston sports teams; the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, or Bruins - or standing beside someone in the depths of their struggle, he brought a fire that could not be ignored. Passionate and protective, Chris lived life with intensity and integrity. His loyalty ran deep, and his love for those around him was fierce and unconditional.

Chris's life took a heartbreaking turn when his beloved first wife, Barbara Hunter, passed away unexpectedly at just 29 years old, following a sudden illness. This profound loss left a lasting mark, yet Chris responded with extraordinary strength and love. He devoted himself completely to raising his two young sons, Shane and Justin, determined to give them every opportunity to grow, thrive, and live fully.

With unshakable faith in God, the enduring support of Alcoholics Anonymous, and his own deep inner resolve, Chris committed to a lifetime of sobriety and personal healing. His journey was not without challenges. He also lived courageously with Type 1 insulin-dependent diabetes from the age of 18, managing his condition with grace, perseverance, and quiet strength.

A proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous, Chris celebrated 37.5 years of sobriety. A milestone that reflected not just personal triumph, but a life spent in service to others. He helped save countless lives, guiding others out of the darkness of addiction with the same strength and hope he used to rebuild his own life through the power of God. He was a mentor, a sponsor, a confidant and a lighthouse in the storm for so many.

Beyond the fellowship of AA and the thrill of the ballgame, Chris found deep peace in the natural world. He took great pride in caring for several large freshwater aquariums, each one home to stunning, exotic fish that reflected his appreciation for beauty and balance. Birds also held a special place in his heart. Their song and flight stirred something within him, perhaps because they symbolized the very freedom and resilience he cherished.

The mountains of Albuquerque, New Mexico, called to Chris like an old friend. Their quiet majesty offered him a place of reflection and renewal. In their stillness, he found strength. In their solitude, he discovered a mirror of his own steadfast soul.

To know Chris was to know someone who never gave up, never backed down, and never stopped loving. He believed in second chances and lived as proof that redemption was not only possible, it was powerful. He carried others when they couldn't carry themselves and taught us all that strength doesn't always roar; sometimes, it's in the quiet presence of someone who simply shows up, day after day. Chris taught those around him to replace fear with faith and to ask God for guidance in all that we do.

Chris is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Donna; his cherished sons, Shane and Justin; and his beloved grandchildren, Leo and Ivy. He also leaves behind his lifelong best friend and brother in spirit, Hugh Vellos, as well as a wide circle of extended family and friends whose lives were deeply touched by his light, love, and generosity.

A profound influence in Chris's life was Roger Leary-his beloved father figure and AA sponsor who stood by his side from the very first day of his sobriety. Roger's unwavering love, guidance, and support strengthened Chris through his 37.5-year journey of recovery, right up until the day God called him home.

Above all, Chris's heart was anchored in deep, abiding love for his sons, his wife, Roger and his dear friend Hugh-a love that will live on in their hearts forever.

A celebration of Chris's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to his surviving wife, Donna Hunter's Go Fund Me link.

We love you, Dad! You are my best friend. Thank you for fighting for yourself, for us, and for so many others. You have earned your angel wings!