Donald “Joe” Hamel Sr. 81, of Natick, entered eternal life January 16, 2019. Born to Herbert and Hazel Hamel, he grew up in Haverhill, MA with his five siblings and spent summers in Hampton Beach. He graduated Haverhill High School and was a proud player on the 1955 State Championship Football Team. He honorably served in the United States Marine Corp (Golden Glove Champ USMC). He was a civil engineer for the Mass Department of Conservation for over 30 years.
He was the beloved husband of the late Joan M. Burke. Together they raised 12 children. They received the MCFL Family of the Year award in 1990. He was a Natick resident for 52 years. He enjoyed the ocean, youth sports, photography and travel.
He was deeply devoted to the Catholic church, active in the parishes of St. James the Great in Wellesley and St. Patrick’s in Natick, teaching CCD for over 50 years. He was a founding member of the MA Citizens for life.
He was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather and was happiest surrounded by his family. He is survived by his siblings, Shirley (Harold) Wyman, Richard (Adele) Hamel, Arlene Hamel, Barbara (late David) Roche. His children Don Hamel (Rich), Mark Hamel (Jenn), Ann Sims (Jim), Janet Limperis (Bill), Paul Hamel (Katie), Susan Hamel, David Hamel (Holly), Mary Cerra (Rob), Nancy Murphy (Brian), Stephen Hamel (Jenn) and Jimmy Hamel. He was predeceased by his son, Daniel, who died in 2009. He is also survived by twenty-six grandchildren, five great grandchildren as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, especially the daily parishioners.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Wednesday January 23rd from 4-8:00 pm at John Everett and Sons Funeral Home, 4 Park Street, at Natick Common. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday January 24th, at 10:00 am at St. Patrick’s Church, 44 E Central St., Natick. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery.