Hunter Boss

Wholesome, humble, honest, and kind, Hunter Edward Boss was an inspiration to many. Hunter was a man who embodied his faith, and warmly welcomed others into his heart. Whether he knew a person for a moment or a lifetime, he reflected their worth and his gratitude for their shared time. A man of undeniable integrity, Hunter was also curious, inventive, and respectful. Treasured son, sibling, coworker, and friend, Hunter embraced life with passion and each person with unconditional love. While our days with Hunter were far too few, the positive power of his life proves a gift we will cherish forever.

America at large was prospering in the ’90s. During this final decade of the 20th Century The United States economy grew by an average of 4 percent per year between 1992 and 1999, an average of 1.7 million jobs a year were added to the American workforce, and the unemployment rate dropped to 4 percent, and the median American household income grew by 10 percent. It was a decade of much good news and astounding new achievement. The quality of entertainment dramatically improved and creative brilliance emanated in our homes in the likes of Harry Potter, Seinfeld, The Simpsons, Friends, and NYPD Blue. Pixar resurrected animation with Toy Story while the digital age boomed with the mainstreaming of the Internet, digital phones, 3-D games, and affordable laptops. Peace and Prosperity were the order of the day, and American culture was vibrant and healthy as well. Locally, life’s good fortunes shined especially brightly for Mark and Melissa (Stehouwer) Boss as they joyfully welcomed their son Hunter into their hearts and home on October 7, 1992.

An only child, Hunter was the center of his parents’ lives. When he was young, he was full of energy and very talkative. He attended West Side Christian School where his natural inquisitiveness was most evident. Sadly, in 1998, Hunter’s mother passed away from cancer. After several difficult years, Hunter and his father were blessed to grow their family. In 2001 his father married Betsy Buist, and Hunter received the many gifts that come with a protective big sister, the companionship of a brother, and a mother’s love.

As he moved through adolescence, Hunter became quieter and more introspective. His mechanical mind loved to analyze and discover first hand the inner-workings of just about anything: cars, boats, planes, remote-controlled cars, dirt bikes, and engines of any kind. His favorite teacher was Brian Dyk, who shared Hunter’s love of deep thoughts and the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and exploring God’s wonders at Camp Roger in Rockford afforded Hunter many adventures and happy memories.

After graduating from Grand Rapids Christian High in 2011, Hunter attended Kettering University for two and a half years. He then transferred to Davenport University where he graduated in 2017 with a BA in Business. With his degree in hand, Hunter began working for the family business, Professional Metal Finishers. He loved his work and his coworkers, and they loved him. He was exceptional at driving a Hi-Lo. When faced with an unusual or heavy load, Hunter would painstakingly take his time to walk around the part, carefully figuring out the best and safest way to move it. His keen eye, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence resulted in his recently becoming the shipping and receiving Manager.

When not at work, Hunter could be found enjoying the good company of his many friends, listening to good music, and pursuing his many interests. Dan McGinnis, Tim Nguyen, Dallas Carter, and Jake Medley were his long-time friends. Every Saturday night was gaming night. While he and his buddies mostly played adventure fantasy games, they also spent this time sharing the week’s doings. Hunter also shared his interests in pistol shooting. A skilled marksman, Hunter was a range safety officer at West Walker Sportsman Club where he was a proud member. It’s not surprising to anyone who knew him that Hunter’s love of nature and natural attention to detail resulted in an interest in photography. He loved the challenge of creatively capturing nature's splendor.

Regardless of distance in time and space, Hunter consciously tended to his friendships. Whether sharing their passions or life’s latest challenges, Hunter proved an undauntable stand for the people he loved. His sincere listening and unwavering faith often inspired those he loved to pursue their interests in spite of their fears. Hunter's unquestionable faith in others often helped people become their best selves.

Analytical and nerdy, Hunter was also generous and self-sacrificing. He quickly gave of his time and talents, while plotting his own unique course in life. Hunter was the family handyman who was always willing to come over and fix things. He was also a proud homeowner. After purchasing his home in 2017, he learned to love cooking, often with the songs of Mumford and Sons playing in the background. A healthy eater, Hunter enjoyed making salmon on the grill and then serving it with salad, homemade dressing, and a whole wheat roll.

Tragically, on Wednesday, August 21, Hunter was involved in a fatal motorcycle accident while riding to work. Clearly, Hunter’s sudden departure leaves us stunned and short of breath. While it is inconceivable to imagine life without his steadfast presence, may we find comfort in our many treasured memories of the young man we were privileged to know. May we also find the courage to carry Hunter’s legacy of embracing each person and each day as a gift forward. With every kindness we extend to another and every road we curiously travel, we keep Hunter’s spirit alive and rippling out to others.

Hunter Edward Boss, age 26, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, August 21, 2019. He was preceded in death by his mother, Melissa Stehouwer Boss. He is survived by his parents, Mark and Betsy Boss; siblings, Tyler and Marylynn Gaastra and Tricia and Brett VanderHaar; other family members, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins; and many close friends.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday, August 27 from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Heritage Life Story, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 6 at 11:00 a.m. at First Evangelical Covenant Church, 1933 Tremont Blvd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. There will be a visitation one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions in Hunter’s memory may be made to Camp Roger (camproger.org). Please visit www.heritagelifestory.com to read Hunter’s life story, submit a favorite memory, photo or to sign the guestbook.