The Bright Side of Life

A reprint of an article on Ed Hunt, that originally appeared in the Standard-Freeholder

Ed Hunt believes you have to be positive in life. "With a positive attitude, it's amazing what you can do. Hunt should know. He's built up an insurance business in Cornwall and a business career that garnered him the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award. As founder of Hunt Insurance, Hunt credits his staff with creating an atmosphere that treats clients as a part of the family. "When you watch business grow, you meet an awful lot of great people. We've enjoyed meeting these people over the years. Our clients have remained with us for a long, long time.

Hunt began the company 51 years ago, admitting despite the success, he's tried to keep it a low profile company, "quiet but growth oriented." While some of the employees have been with the company for 25 years, many of them are young, he explains, including his son Brendon, now the president, and his daughter Jennifer. He jokes that at 65, he "pulls down the average age." It's clear that Hunt holds his employees in great regard and affection.

In the insurance business, it's important staff is constantly upgrading training. It's important, he stresses, not only because of the expertise and knowledge needed to deal with the large accounts, but also because clients turn to their insurance agents in times of need. When there's a fire or an accident, people are upset and in shock. "We have to do our job right, so that people are looked after," says Hunt.

Hunt was born and raised in Cornwall just down second street a few blocks from where his business is now. Growing up here, he says, was "great". As a youngster he spent a lot of time in the football field and hockey rinks. At CCVS, he met his wife Eileen, who he says has been an incredible support to him.

He didn't start out to work in the insurance field, instead starting his business career with the Woolworth Company. But the call to start his own business was strong and he returned home, with Eileen and his year-old son. When Hunt began his business, work on the Seaway was basically finishing up, he says. It was a time to be positive.

Over the years, Hunt has gone about his business quietly, building up the company with key purchases, including the 100 year-old Tallon Agency, Warren and Rice in Ingleside and Warner Insurance. "These were opportunities we felt we should take," he explains.

No matter how big the business has grown, he has tried to maintain a friendly atmosphere. "We have a great organization. We treat people with respect. We try to have fun even though it is a serious business."

These days, he does have a bit more time now, to enjoy downhill skiing with Eileen or perhaps do some gardening. but it's hard to stop working when you enjoy what you do. "I could let up anytime. But I like the business and I like dealing with people."

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