Kenneth Joseph Hammell
Ken passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 9th, 2017 at South Muskoka Memorial Hospital in Bracebridge in his 96th year. Cherished husband of 74 years to Margaret Hammell (nee Hunt). Beloved father of Judy Hutton and her husband Gary and Brian Hammell and his wife Kathy. Adored by six granddaughters Shayna Hutton (Doug), Elicia Lambert (Cameron), Kristen Hutton (Joe), Genna Nichol (Adam), Kaitlyn Hoos (Cameron), Chelsea Lever (Josh) and eight great grandchildren Kendon and Madelyne Zettle, Alexa and Jace Lambert, Ellie and Avery Nichol, Zoe Hoos and Hadley Lever.
He was the first born child of Percy Ernest Hammell and Martha Ellen Thompson predeceased by his sister Violet Woods and brothers Glen and Tommy Hammell.
Ken was a well known and respected member of the Bracebridge community. Signing up at 20 years of age with the Air Force, he maintained a loyal membership with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 161 for 70 years. Many people will remember Kens’ 20 plus years of volunteering with the Air Cadets in town.
Playing left wing, Ken was an original member of the Bracebridge Bears hockey team which was formed in 1946. He played in the opening game at the new arena in 1949.
Town’s people and summer visitors will fondly remember Ken’s service on the main street as a loyal employee of 41 years at Ecclestone Hardware.
Ken was an active and faithful member of St Thomas Anglican Church.
In his spare time Ken was never idle. He enjoyed and kept busy renovating, building, helping others, making wine, playing poker, square and round dancing and snowmobiling.
With many retirement years to enjoy with Margaret, Ken planned extensive travels throughout Canada and the United States. He also revisited his passion for wood working and with Margaret learned how to play bridge.
With heartfelt gratitude our family would like to thank the following people/ facilities:
Dr. Keith Cross, dedicated staff and friends of the Muskoka Hills Retirement Villa, CCAC and Closing the Gap. All P.S.W’s (especially noting Bev Krozicki), who have assisted Ken with daily rise and retire, South Muskoka Memorial Hospital – Dr. Head, Dr. Shawn and nursing staff, Reynolds Funeral Parlor staff Ben Tubman and Darren Growen.
A Memorial Service will be held at St. Thomas Anglican Church in Bracebridge on Friday, August 18th, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. A reception will follow in the Browning Hall. As your expression of sympathy memorial donations may be made to the St. Thomas Anglican Church building Fund or South Muskoka Memorial Hospital Foundation. Messages of condolence can be made at www.reynoldsfuneral.com
I love you Kenny.
We love you Dad.
We love you Poppa