The family of William Duane Hunt, 84, born in Philadelphia, Pa., and a 27-year resident of Boothbay, with heavy hearts announce his death on February 27, 2014.

He is survived by his loving wife Claire, five stepchildren and grandchildren as well as four children and grandchildren from a previous marriage. Sadly, two of his children predeceased him.

A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Bill served on the submarine USS Conger as a sonar operator. Later he became a successful Long Island general contractor for many years where he raised his children before later moving to Williamsport, Pa. He earned a degree in horticulture and studied structural engineering at Brooklyn Polytechic. While working for Grumann Manufacturing he spent many years traveling to countries of the southern hemisphere including South America, Africa and Australia.

During his travels, he met and fell in love with Claire. They settled in Grosse Pointe, Mich., before both started yet another career as innkeepers in Boothbay after “retiring.” All the while Bill kept his keen eye on antiques, and he could be regularly found at the dump, private homes, Montsweag Flea Market or auctions, always looking for that deal.

Bill was very proud of his family and their accomplishments. He especially enjoyed living in the Boothbay area; being appreciative of the kindly ways of his neighbors. In small and large ways, the open and giving nature of the area was always a source of wonder to him. He and Claire have always considered each day a gift.

Per Bill’s wishes, his body was donated to the University of New England School of Osteopathic Medicine. He requested that memorial gifts be directed to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, P.O. Box 234, Boothbay, ME 04537. Also in accordance with his wishes and those of his wife Claire, there will be no memorial service.