Hunter Grimes III, a River’s Loss

For those of us on the River who knew Hunter F.  Grimes III, the news of his death in early September was sad indeed.  On Saturday, September 12th, Hunter’s friends and family gathered at the J. B. Lyman Post of Alexandria Bay, where a Navy Color Guard  presented the American flag to the family. Many expressed their thoughts about Hunter – and even though there was profound sadness that Hunter has left the River, there was ample opportunity to remember this gentleman with fondness and laughter. 

We at “TI Life” have had the unique opportunity to share in several of Hunter’s “provocative  literary contributions” –  these words are in quotes as that was what he liked to call them. 

But Hunter did not like everything about TI Life.  For back in October 2011 Dave Whitford, who spent many summers in the Islands, wrote About Hunter Grimes. It was there we learned about Hunter’s boat racing passion.  “Way too positive,” Hunter said and then he scolded me…  the last thing he wanted was to be recognized as special.  In fact, he made sure his obituary said what he wanted it to say, by writing it himself.  

I first met Hunter when I served on the board of Save the River, about 30 years ago.  Hunter was the President and it was a time of change for this important River organization. Hunter put together a team of new board members who helped make a real difference. He went on to assist many organizations, institutions and individuals through mentoring. 

Yes, I am certainly sad for this loss, but I smiled when Martha Lee, as Hunter called his better half, wrote:

“Hunter is still a great oral story teller on most days.  Friday was an epic event.  Hospice presented him with a plaque in a ceremony to honor him for his military service.  I had contacted several of his Seal Team teammates and they came from Reno, Nev., Florida, Virginia and Binghampton, NY.  In addition a Master Sgt. friend from Ft. Drum brought 2 other Master Sgts. who are snipers, same as the Reno Seal.  You would not have believed the conversation among these warriors.  There were about 30 friends and family who attended this and it was very moving.  We had the army, navy, air force and marines represented.  It all ended with a great laugh as our son's dog ate about 5 lbs of cold cuts and cheese sitting on the table intended to serve everyone lunch after the ceremony.”

I am sure the many tributes sent to the Grimes family will continue over the years. 

Below are the Hunter Grimes “TI Life” articles – Enjoy them again – and thanks Hunter…  Fellow River Rats will miss you. Link to November 2010 Link to May 2011 Link to February 2013       Link to May 2014 Link to October 2013 Link to August 2014 By Susan W. Smith, Editor, TI Life