Francis Gerard "Fran" Hamel

EASTHAMPTON

Francis (Fran) Gerard Hamel passed away unexpectedly on April 29, 2020. Fran was born on March 22, 1943, in Westfield, MA, and was the son of the late George and Ruth Hamel. Fran lived the majority of his life in Easthampton, MA with his wife Patricia (Pat) Hamel of 49 years. After graduating from Holyoke High School in 1961, Fran joined the U.S. Navy and served six years, splitting his time between the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid and The Pentagon in Washington, D.C.

Following his service in the U.S. Navy, Fran worked in finance spending 43 years at Spalding Sports in Chicopee, MA. Fran was a strong supporter of volleyball worldwide spanning over three decades, served as president of the Volleyball Hall of Fame, and received the Mintonette Award from the Hall of Fame in 2007 recognizing his contributions. Fran was a life-long member and past president of the French Canadian Beavers Club in Holyoke, MA, and served on the zoning board with the City of Easthampton, MA. 

Fran was a devoted husband to Pat, who was the love of his life. Their favorite times were spent at Lake Wyola, in Shutesbury, MA, and in the warm weather and in Florida, during the winter months. He was a loving father to Jennifer (Hamel) Donohue and her husband, Matthew Donohue, of Holyoke, and their four children Lucas, Quinn, Eleanor, and Cora; as well as his son, Jeff Hamel of Los Altos, California and his wife, Danielle, and their two children, Jack and Chase. Fran enjoyed spending the majority of his time over the past several years with his grandchildren watching soccer games, going to gymnastics lessons, and swim class. He was a devoted fan of any sports that his grandkids played as well as any New England sports team. Fran is survived by his sister Judi and her husband Drew Farley from Mystic, CT, and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Fran loved his time at Lake Wyola with his family and friends, where he made so many wonderful friendships. Friday night boat rides were a favorite pastime for Pat and Fran with their friends. Fran also loved his dog Rosie, who was a dear companion to him. Fran was truly a conversationalist, he genuinely enjoyed learning about others and their lives. Anyone who met Fran, felt special and knew how much he loved others.

A private service will be held for the family this week, where Fran will be buried at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam, MA. A memorial service and celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Holyoke and, or the WillPower Foundation.

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