Duston Hunt Sr., 90, passed gently in the night at his home in Gila, Wednesday, December 21st, his loved ones at his side. Born in Byars, OK, September 25th, 1926, to Lillie Belle Larman and Roy Peller Hunt, he was the youngest of 3 children. Childhood was an outdoor adventure along the Canadian River near Byars, with further adventures along the Gila River in Hayden AZ where Duston graduated from high school.

Following his time in the Navy, Duston met and married Ann Richardson. They made their home in many places including Hayden AZ, Battle Creek MI, Brawley CA, and several homes in Grant County NM. While living at their ranch at Whitewater south of Silver City, their son Dusty was born in 1951.

Duston loved exploring the natural world. Every day was a day of discovery, identifying plants, studying geology, exploring the mountains, creeks and rivers. He loved to work, mostly as a tinsmith, but he had numerous other skills that he applied throughout his life. He loved building his homes, working in his garden, putting food up, milking his cows and goats, and in between times would read everything he could. In 1981 he met his second love, Gretchen Van Auken. His adventures continued for 35 years, until his death, with her at his side.

Preceded in death by his parents, his sister Mildred, and brother Orval, he is survived by his son Dusty(Pat), granddaughter Alida Burchett(Robert), great grandsons Rowan and Brennan, nieces and nephews, including Shirley Sharon and Donna Field of Arizona.

Everyone is invited to attend a celebration of life gathering Saturday January 7. Eulogies will be offered outside at the Gila Community Center beginning at 12 noon, weather permitting. Food will be provided afterwards, across the street at the Senior Citizens Center. Bring warm clothing and stories to share. For information call 575-535-4111.