R. Elaine Hunt, 94, former longtime resident of Decatur, IN, passed away early Tuesday morning, April 21, 2026, at Otterbein SeniorLife Community in Franklin, IN. She was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on May 18, 1931, daughter of the late Charles and Hilda (Henschen) Gerkepott. On December 24, 1970, Elaine married Harold E. “Hal” Hunt, he preceded her in death on January 15, 2006.
Elaine was a 1949 graduate of Dillsboro High School and a 1955 graduate of the University of Cincinnati. She received her Masters Degree from Purdue University in 1962.
Elaine was a Home Economist for the Purdue Extension Service in Johnson, Boone, Madison, Allen & Adams County. She retired in 1986.
She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Franklin, Indiana. Elaine was also involved in the Fort Wayne Herb Gardener’s Club, Merrier Monday’s Extension Homemakers, Business and Professional Women & led a grief share group for many years.
Elaine is survived by her son-in-law, Dr. Randall M. (Judy) Kerkhoff; 3 grandchildren, Mark (LeAnn) Kerkhoff, Rebecca (Andrew) Moulton and Craig (Candas) Kerkhoff; cousins, Eve (Hardon) Graham & Michael Gerkepott; special friends, Melvin & Kathy Spaulding.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, Hal Hunt; daughter, Kathie Kerkhoff.
A Graveside service will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026 in Decatur Cemetery at 3:00 p.m.
A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Otterbein Senior Life in Franklin, IN.
Memorials may be made to Grace United Methodist Church Food Pantry.
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