When Lewis (Lewie) Hunt Jr.’s friends and family saw him coming, a smile was always across his face. His charismatic personality will remain a fond memory following his passing at age 75.

Hunt was diagnosed with dementia in 2018. Upon further testing, his prognosis was confirmed to include Alzheimer’s. While his wife, Joan Tucker, said he fought hard to stay with them, he passed away on Aug. 9, 2023, in a nursing home in Kansas City, MO.

His career in the promotional products industry lasted 36 years. He started as a commissioned sales representative for The Vernon Company (asi/351700), worked his way up to district manager and then served as the president of Souvenir Pen Co. Known as “the pen guy,” Hunt had a fascination with pens and love for the industry.

He eventually decided he wanted to take a different route and began a multi-line rep company called Hunt/Evans Group.

In 2008, Lewie moved to Kansas City to marry Tucker and began The Hunt Group with her.

“He just never knew a stranger,” Tucker said. “He trained so many people in our industry to become successful. He was a very great role model and just loved the promo industry.”

Originally from St. Joseph, MO, Lewie loved Missouri Tiger football and a good game of golf. He had a strong faith in God and served as an usher at his church, St. Therese Parish in Kansas City. He loved his wife and brought her flowers often.

His friend from the industry, Gordon Blake, who started his career at Hazel and ended with Big River Marketing, said Hunt was a hard worker and good friend while always bringing fun to work and meetings.

“He was just an all-around good guy,” Blake said. “He’ll be missed.”

Lewie is survived by five children and three stepchildren, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His celebration of life will be held at Trinity Woods in Independence, MO on Sept. 16 from 3 to 6 p.m.