North Lawrence – Hunter John Van Ells, at the precious age of 21 months, received his wings when he passed away Friday night February 15, 2020 at University Hospital SUNY Health Science Center in Syracuse with is loving family at his side.
Hunter was born at the same hospital on March 24, 2018, the son of John J. and Ashlee L. (Whitmarsh) Van Ells. He was a fighter through his short life as he was born with Rhizomendelic chondrodysplasia punctate and underwent the care of many doctors and nurses who cared for him. Hunter loved music, laughing with mom and dancing with his dad while dad sang to him. His parents poured out their love for him and never gave up hope. He blessed his family and those he touched.
Hunter is survived by his parents, John and Ashlee; his paternal grandparents, Joachim and Brenda Van Ells of Hopkinton, his maternal grandparents; Erick Whitmarsh of Russell and Lisa Whitmarsh of Ogdensburg, great grandparents, Todd and Dianna Lambert, nieces and nephews.
His parents commemorated Hunter’s life privately, so there will be no public services. Arrangements are entrusted to the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop.
John and Ashlee extend their gratitude to the doctors, hospitals, and staff who were an amazing team of caregivers. We want to give special thanks to Dr. Peter Rajtar and the Hammill Funeral Home, who have been so loving and supportive.