March 28, 1948 - December 10, 2023
After a long illness and hard, brave fight, Michael (Mike) Wayne Hamilton passed peacefully at St. Joesph’s Hospital on the evening of December 10, 2023.
Mike was born to Billie and Leita Hamilton on March 28, 1948 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. He is survived by his cherished wife of 42- years Mary Louise; brothers William and Jonathan; sister Judith; son Michael Jr.; and step-children Dee Hand (Art), Nancy Cox (Mark) and Al Francis. He is preceded in death by brother David and sister Kathy. “Papa” was also a most treasured grandfather of 11, great grandfather of 7 and “Daddy” to his beloved Yorkie, Bojangles.
Mike spent his 40-year career as a stationary engineer, first managing and maintaining complicated boiler systems ship-side in the US Navy during the Vietnam War. Later he did the same for Campbell’s Soup in Modesto, then for San Joaquin County at the San Joaquin County General Hospital. Mike retired in 2011 and took the next 12 years to enjoy quality time with his wife, family and friends.
Mike was a proud veteran of the Vietnam conflict and saw himself as a stalwart patriot. The lively debates and strong opinions that Mike regularly shared will be missed by those closest to him.
Mike chose cremation for his final resting. No public service will be held but donations to the Vietnam Veterans of America in his memory would be greatly appreciated.
Rest in peace “C Pappy”.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Hamilton family.