Dean Albert Hunter

Dean Albert Hunter, age 90, passed away on September 15, 2026, in Pleasant Hill, Missouri. He was born on April 20, 1936, in Waukee, Iowa.

Dean graduated from Waukee High School and proudly served in the United States Air Force. After honorable discharge from the Air Force, he continued to pursue his aviation and mechanical interests by attending Aircraft and Powerplant trade school. After earning his A&P license, he worked as an aircraft mechanic and later as a jet engine inspector at Trans World Airlines for 37 years.

On November 7, 1964, Dean married the love of his life, Janice Linn, in Waukee, Iowa. He resided in Waukee before moving to Parkville, Missouri, where he and his wife made their home and raised their family. Their marriage and home life were at the heart of the family he cherished.

Dean found joy in many interests throughout his life. He loved woodworking and took special pride in his 1960 Ford Falcon restoration. He was a member of the Ford Falcon Club of America and also enjoyed motorcycles, Western movies, World War II history, and 50's Rock and Roll. He was involved with the Boy Scouts of America and was a member of Platte Woods United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Lorraine; his son, Mark (Heather) Hunter, his daughter, Marcene “Marcie” (Ron) McFarland, his granddaughter, Madelyne Hunter; his sister, Karen (Chuck) Colwell, his nephew, Steve (Maria) Colwell, his nieces, Kristen Colwell and Julie (Todd) Shearer-Oetting, and his grandnieces and grandnephews, Rachael, Kaitlin, Tanner, and Doug. He was deeply loved by his family, and his memory will remain a lasting blessing to all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Evelyn (Harold) Hunter-Burger, his father, Burton Hunter; and his sister, Greta (Ernie) Shearer.

Dean will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his years of service to his country and career, and the simple pleasures that brought him happiness. His life was one of steady love, faithful work, and lasting interests that reflected who he was.

A visitation will be held Thursday, September 24, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Ernst Funeral Home (80 NE Dartmoor Drive, Waukee, IA) with a graveside following at 11:30 a.m. at Waukee Cemetery (1065 6th Street, Waukee, IA.). The visitation and service will be live-streamed and can be viewed at the time or for 30 days thereafter via: www.facebook.com/ernstfuneralcremation (no Facebook account is required to view).

Ernst Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Waukee has been entrusted with Dean's final arrangements.