Walter Charles Hunt

Walter Charles Hunt, aged 89, passed away on December 9, 2025, in Olympia, Washington. Born August 3,1936, in St. Paul, Minnesota, he was the son of Calvin Hunt and Ruth Mahler Hunt. Walter attended University High School in Minneapolis, where he served in student government, played tennis, and during his senior year was captain of the wresting team placing 4th in state. He continued his education at the University of Minnesota, earning a BA in International Relations and Russian. During his final year, he met Joan Countryman while waiting in line for Gophers football tickets; they married in September 1958.

Walter served in the United States Army from 1958 to 1961, including a year in Korea as a Morse code interpreter. In 1965 he began his teaching career, and in 1968 completed a Masters in Education at Michigan State University, followed by a PhD in Education Administration from the University of Washington in 1976. He worked for the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction until his retirement in 2002. Walter was passionate about teaching and served as an adjunct faculty at Evergreen State College, St. Martins University, and Pacific Lutheran University.

From 1968-1972 Walter and Joan taught in American Samoa. Their young family embraced the experience and Walter used his gift of language to become a fluent speaker. Prior to departing the islands Walter was granted an honorary matai title to reflect his positive contributions to the community.

A lifelong learner and avid reader, Walter had a deep appreciation for books, ranging from stories shared with his children to biographies and accounts of significant events. He was driven by an enduring curiosity about life and the many people he met. He loved hiking and in later years walking, frequently expressing awe and admiration for mother nature.

During their 50 years in Olympia, Walter was a dedicated member of Evergreen Christian Community. He loved his church family, studying the bible and serving wherever he was needed.

Walter is preceded in death by his parents, his brother William Hunt, and his daughter Jennifer Hunt. He is survived by his wife, Joan (Countryman), of Olympia, Washington; his brother John Hunt (Sara) of Minneapolis, Minnesota; his daughter Lynn Hunt (Tim Shell) of Ridgefield, Washington; two sons, Thomas Hunt (Valerie) of Blythe, California and David Hunt of Seattle, Washington; granddaughter Helen Shell of Spokane, Washington; and many other relatives and friends who will remember his kindness, inquisitiveness, and wisdom.

A memorial service in celebration of Walter’s life will be held on January 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Evergreen Christian Community, 1000 Black Lake Blvd SW Olympia, WA 98502. All who knew and loved Walter are invited to join in honoring his memory.