Dennis C. Hamel, beloved husband, step-father, grandfather and Friend to many, passed away peacefully at Advent Health Hospice, surrounded by his family, on Monday, January 22, 2024, at the age of 74.
He is survived by his Wife, Kathy Wassum-Hamel, Brothers Ronald and Bernie Hamel, Sister in law- Jayna Hamel, several Cousins, Nieces and Nephews, Brother-in-law, George Royal, Sister on law, Eva Grace Royal, Sisters in law, Debbie and Joe Russell, and Tricia and Bill Barr, Step children, Dale, Tara, Leah and Marc, and 3 Grandchildren, Lily, Nicholas and Emerson.
He touched the lives of so many, with his Career in the Navy for 21 years as MS1.He graduated from Edgewater High School in 1968.It was there that he earned the nickname Bear, for his big burly appearance, as he was the Football assistant. It stuck with him his entire life. After retiring from the Navy, He went to College on the GI Bill, and earned an undergraduate degree from Troy State University, and a Masters Degree in Counseling and Psychology, from Columbia College.
After retiring from the Navy, He worked for Orange County at DCF and Greater Oaks Village. When retiring from these positions, his favorite place of employment was at Publix in Baldwin Park. He loved meeting new people and seeing old friends that he had lost touch with during his Navy deployments. He worked there until becoming ill last December. During his life, he was a Coach for baseball and football, made hundreds of friends, and took care of his Mother and Aunt at the end of their lives.
The Funeral is on Tuesday, January 30, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 526 N. Park Ave.in Winter Park, FL 32789. DeGusipe Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Father Walsh will be the officiant.