Hunter grew up in Altamont, Illinois, recently graduating from Altamont Community High School. While attending high school, he participated in soccer, cross country, and track and field. Hunter enjoyed being part of a team. He was a part of the 4x800 relay team that qualified to compete at the 2016 IHSA State Track Meet. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He had a true love of nature. From an early age, Hunter enjoyed catching snakes, frogs, toads, and turtles and hiking in national and state parks. Hunter enjoyed spending time with his friends, family, and girlfriend, Bailie. He had a wide variety of friends and was known for his ability to lift people up when they were down. He was the first-born grandchild on both sides of his family. His cousins looked upon him as a superhero. From the day his sister Hannah was born, he was always protective of her and was disappointed that they weren't closer in age in order for him to keep an eye on her at the high school level. Hunter pursued his dream of serving his country by enlisting in the United States Army - National Guard on August 11, 2015. He attended monthly duty and excelled in his physical training drills. In addition, he was promoted to E2 rank. He was to report for his Basic and AIT training on June 15, 2016. Prior to his passing, he was serving with Lima Company RSP in Mattoon, attached to Company B 2nd 130th Infantry in Effingham. Hunter's final opportunity to serve others was his gift of organ donation.