Steven R. “Steve” Hunter died peacefully on Aug. 9, 2025 at his home in Hermiston at the age of 74 with Sandy and his extended family, Salvador, Theresa and their children by his side.
He was born on Nov. 23, 1950 in Prosser, Wash. to Ralph and Ruth Kron Hunter.
Steve attended Prosser schools all 18 years. He then attended YVC and the University of Idaho, where he excelled in football and baseball at both schools. Steve was an excellent athlete and was drafted several times by the Pittsburgh Pirates and was the 37th overall player taken in the 1971 draft by the New York Yankees. He also signed a free agent contract with the Dallas Cowboys in 1973. An injury his senior year at the University of Idaho prevented him from pursuing his dream of professional sports.
Steve was united in marriage to Sandy Lofing on May 12, 1973 and they made their home in Hermiston for over 52 years.
Steve loved to hunt and fish but his joy was playing golf, especially with Sandy. He got his first hole in one in June 2022 and what a thrill that was for him.
Steve worked for Pendleton Grain Growers driving truck for over 35 years. He then worked at the Hermiston Irrigation District until his retirement.
He is survived by Sandy, his wife of 52 years; brother-in-law, Dennis Lofing; sister, Ruby Bruns (Rod); nieces, Rhonda and Robyn; nephews, Tyler and Trevor; and an abundance of very dear friends.
A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, Aug. 22, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Burns Mortuary Chapel, Hermiston.
Burial will follow at the Hermiston Cemetery.
Our thanks to Tonya at Vange John Memorial Hospice who was there for us at the end and to the many caring friends who reached out to Steve during his illness. God bless you all. He is finally at peace!
Please share memories of Steve with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
