Daughter of community champion Dave Hunter speaks on father's sudden death at age 48

A well-known champion of Windsor-Essex who was actively involved in charity events, launched a magazine and touched countless lives across the region has died at the age of 48.

Dave Hunter was found dead in his sleep on the morning of June 30, according to his daughter Madison.Madison Hunter says she had just woken up Friday morning before seeing six missed calls on her phone from her stepmother. When Hunter called her back, she learned her father, community champion Dave Hunter, had died in his sleep at the age of 48. Pictured in Windsor, Ont. on Sunday, July 2, 2023. (Sanjay Maru/CTV News Windsor)

Five years before being named Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, Hunter launched "The Drive" magazine and published its first issue in December of 2000.

As a local realtor, Hunter was in the middle of managing the sale of the Low-Martin Mansion in Walkerville. The property has a listed asking price of $3.4 million.

Hunter’s obituary describes him as a “vibrant soul” with an infectious sense of humour who brought joy to everyone. He had a passion for life, relentless drive and was always there for those around him.

“His caring nature extended beyond his circle of friends, as he was a dedicated advocate for all those in need and he was a force for change in the world. His selflessness and commitment to making a positive impact on the Windsor Essex Community will continue to inspire us all. Dave's dedication and unwavering commitment to the unconventional motivated everyone to push beyond our limits,” the obituary said.

“Dave's dedication and unwavering commitment to the unconventional motivated everyone to push beyond our limits. It was Dave's fierce love for his family and community that truly set him apart. His legacy of the Ride to Survive and Drive Magazine will be a reminder to all of us for many years to come.”

A memorial service to celebrate Hunter’s life will be held at Melady Funeral Home (572 Notre Dame St. Belle River, ON 519-728-1500) on Wednesday, July 5, 2023 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to T2B - The Ride to Survive in his name. A celebration of life to honor Dave will be held on Friday, July 7, 2023 at Rochester Place Golf Club and Resort - Parkside Grill from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

In an interview with CTV News, Madison Hunter speaks at length about how she learned of her father's death, reading tributes from the many people whose lives he has impacted and how her family has been coping.

Click on the video at the top of the page to watch the full interview.