Contribute to Hunter’s Memorial Fund and his legacy at CRA

Dear friends, family, and kind-hearted community,

It is with an extremely broken heart that I announce the sudden and devastating loss of my beloved son, Joseph Hunter Budjinski, who passed away on Sunday, June 30. He was a cherished son, grandson and friend to so many who had the honor of knowing him. To know him was to love him! There are not enough words to express how much he will be missed.

Hunter had a smile that would light up the entire room. His love for the people near and dear to him was off the charts. If you were close to him, his love for you was euphoric. He enjoyed deep meaningful conversations. He cherished spending time with his friends more than anything in this world. Music was his life! His love and passion for music was more than just a hobby, it was part of what made Hunter feel “ALIVE.”

Unfortunately, Hunter’s life was cut way too short. He just graduated from high school at the Chesterfield Recovery Academy (CRA) in May and at only 17 years old he completed his entire senior year early. He absolutely loved the staff and friends he made at Chesterfield Recovery Academy. His counselors were the constructive extended family influence that he so desired. Their support and guidance made such a positive impact on his recovery while he was there.

I am reaching out to my friends, family, colleagues, and community for support in honoring Hunter’s memory by creating “Hunters Memorial fund“ where 100% of all proceeds collected will be donated to the Chesterfield Recovery Academy to assist future students and graduates of CRA with their journey to sobriety and addiction. The funds will help with the treatment, education, and counseling even after graduation through college or the workforce. The Recovery Academy has declared May 8 (Hunter’s birthday) as “Hunter’s Day” and will celebrate Hunter’s life and his passions with all future students of CRA by hosting bands, field trips, and activities annually to honor and remember his life.

Any contribution, no matter how small will help the future students of CRA get assistance and treatment that could possibly save their life. Your generosity will make a meaningful difference in ensuring that Hunter’s life and his legacy will be known and a part of all future Recovery Academy students.

I also appreciate your thoughts, prayers, and messages of support during this incredibly difficult time. Hunter was not only my precious son, but also my best friend and the wind beneath my wings. I sincerely appreciate all of your help and support as I navigate through this grief. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Joe