Gerritt Lee Hunting

Gerritt Lee Hunting, 84 of Osceola, IN entered heaven’s rest surrounded by family on Thursday, October 12, 2023.  Born in Mt. Pleasant, IA to the late Marvin and Grace (Siverly) Hunting, Gerritt later married his high school sweetheart, Mary Renee Henessee, in Mt. Pleasant on August 27, 1961.  They enjoyed a great life together over 62 years.

Mary survives along with their four children: Lee Ann (Tom) Laidig of Mishawaka, IN, Joseph (Christina) Hunting of Rochester, IN, James (Tracy) Hunting of Evarts, KY, and Lori Calhoun of Osceola.  Gerritt was known as “Grandpa” to his 11 grandchildren and “Big G” to 5 great grandchildren with more on the way.

A 1961 graduate of Iowa State with a Bachelor’s in Agricultural Education, Gerritt became a teacher by trade but always remained a farmer at heart.  Lessons taught to students in Agriculture, FFA, and later Earth Science continued throughout his lifetime.  His grandchildren came to expect and even love conversations about rocks, soils, and meandering rivers when they visited his Iowa farm.

Gerritt leaves a rich legacy of faith in Jesus, love for his family, and for the hard work of farm life they shared together.  His best days were spent with a cap on his head, cattle in his pasture, and a few sheep and goats in the barn to delight visiting grandchildren.  A pony was always ready to bridle for his children, grandchildren, and most recently his great grandchildren.  Gerritt had a friendly teasing smile and a nickname for many of his friends and loved ones.  He was eager to find yet another auction or garage sale and always had a story to tell.

Celebration of Gerritt’s life will be held at St. Mark’s Missionary Church in Mishawaka, IN on November 11, 2023.  Visitation for family and friends will be from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm directly preceding a celebration service following at noon.

Memorial contributions in Gerritt’s memory can be made to East Iowa Bible Camp, Deep River, IA where he enjoyed countless hours at Family Camp with his family.

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