Richard Hamel

Richard Albert Hamel died Monday, August 2, 2021, at his home. He was born September 26, 1931, in Kalamazoo, MI a son of Arthur L. and Lucille M. (Hawley) Hamel. Richard lived in Mattawan with his parents and sister, Virginia and attended Mattawan Schools. After leaving school he joined the Pipefitting trade. When he was 18, he was drafted into the Marine Corps for Korea. He did his training in Puerto Rico and served as a Brig warden. After coming home, he reentered the trades and began work with W Soule and shortly after bought the family farm. He met Virginia (Carter) in 1963. They had their first son Michael shortly after. They married in February of 1966. Art was born May of 66 and Susan was born May 68. Richard spent most of his time teaching his kids and grandchildren about farming. He always called it "The Romance of the Harvest." After retiring from W Soule in the early 90s, Richard continued farming for several more years. He was famous for always having a Budweiser and being everyone's friend. There was no one he met that he couldn't strike up a conversation with. Richard loved kids and he loved to dance with his daughter and granddaughters. He will be dearly missed by everyone he knew. He made such an impact on those around him. His smile and hugs will be forever cherished. Richard was preceded in death by his parents; son, Michael Hamel; daughter Susan Hamel; and sister, Virginia Russell. He is survived by his wife, Virginia; son, Arthur (Christie) Hamel; daughter, Paulette (Jake) Esman; 15 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. Cremation has taken place. Graveside services will be held 1:00 Wednesday afternoon, August 11, 2021, in Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Services entrusted to Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 3926 S 9th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009. To view Richard's personalized web page, please visit https://www.langelands.com