Paul Richard Hunt
August 21, 1956 – June 23, 2025
Paul Richard Hunt, age 68, of Mora, MN, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born on August 21, 1956, in St. Paul, Paul was the beloved son of Glenn Roy Hunt and Leatrice Medary Hunt (Sater).
Paul grew up in St. Paul and graduated from Alexander Ramsey High School in 1975. From an early age, he was active and full of energy — roller skating, water skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, ice skating, swimming, sledding, and camping with friends and family. As a teenager, Paul had a strong work ethic, mowing lawns for $2 — often pushing his mower eight blocks while "borrowing" gas from his dad. He eventually saved up enough money to buy his first vehicle- a red chevy impala- which he loved showing off. Later in his teenage years, one of his favorite places was Camperville, where the Hunt family spent summers embracing lake life and the peace of the outdoors. Paul’s love for nature and recreation became a defining part of his life.
Eventually, Paul moved to Mora, MN, where he met his future wife, Shelley Kvale, at the local bar -Bud and Corky’s. The two were married in 1984 at St. Mary’s Church. Together, they built a beautiful life and started a family, raising two daughters, Stephanie and Maggie. Paul’s selflessness truly came to light when he became a father. Even after long workdays and a commute, he poured his energy into his family — playing volleyball and badminton in the yard, building forts, enjoying campfires, swimming, fishing, and making every moment meaningful. If it made his daughters happy, Paul did it without hesitation or complaint.
Some of the family’s most treasured memories were made at summer resorts, where Paul spent countless hours teaching his girls — and other kids — how to water ski, always leading with patience and encouragement. In 2004, Paul and Shelley made a dream come true when they bought a lake place of their own on Ball Bluff Lake. It became the setting for years of cherished memories: campfires, kayaking, and quiet moments by the water. He took great pride in maintaining the lake lot and his home yard — always making things beautiful for others to enjoy.
Just when it seemed Paul couldn’t give more, he stepped into the role of Grandpa. Brookston and Kashton, his grandsons, were the light of his life. His playful, gentle spirit blossomed even further as he devoted himself to bringing them joy. Whether playing in the yard, exploring outdoors, or simply making them laugh, Paul found deep purpose and happiness in being a grandpa.
In 2018, Paul was diagnosed with cancer. Despite the challenges, he and his family made it a priority to travel and enjoy new experiences. Paul especially loved his time in Florida, but also cherished trips to Ely, Grand Marais, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and other scenic destinations. These travels brought new meaning to life, even in the face of illness.
The obstacles Paul faced over the last few years were immense, but through it all, he remained a source of light, love, and inspiration to those around him. His strength, humor, kindness, and devotion are the legacy he leaves behind.
Paul is preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Leatrice Hunt, as well as many beloved aunts and uncles. He is survived by his loving wife of over 40 years, Shelley Hunt (Kvale); daughters Maggie Hunt and Stephanie (Corey) Sunderman; cherished grandsons Brookston and Kashton Sunderman; sisters Barb Olson, Roxanne Delaitsch, Pam Miller (his twin), and Karen (Tom) Filipek; along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Paul will be remembered not for the illness he battled, but for the life he lived — full of love, laughter, and quiet heroism. His legacy will live on in the family he loved so deeply and the joy he brought to the world.
A celebration of life will be held at the Sunderman residence on July 19th, 2025, from 12pm-3pm. A meal and beverages will be served. Please join us for a heartfelt gathering filled with stories, laughter and shared memories as we honor the joy Paul brought to our lives.
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