Joseph Frank Hamilton

Joseph F. "Joe" Hamilton, age 66, passed away on Friday, December 23, 2016 after a brief illness in Columbus, Ohio. Joe was born on June 12, 1950 in Newark, Ohio to the late Morton and Lucille (Shelly) Hamilton. Joe graduated from Kettering Fairmont West HS, and Wittenberg University with a post graduate degree from the U. of Tennessee. Joe grew up an excellent athlete and teammate, and in basketball stood out on the national level while playing at Wittenberg University. Joe continued in basketball as a coach at the collegiate, high school and middle school levels. His unique perspective to be a teammate first in a fun game, while striving to excel to one's highest level, was passed on to countless young athletes. He also found joy on the golf course sharing his passion and proficiency with others including as a staff member at Scioto CC in central Ohio and for several months a year in Naples, Florida. With Joe golf was a good walk enhanced for golfers of all skill levels. Also a man of letters, Joe entertained family and friends with countless letters -- and later emails --that displayed his ability to turn a phrase with an enduring sense of humor and wit. He is survived by his fiancé Gail Budgin, brothers, Jim (Lynn) Hamilton, Bob (Sudy) Hamilton, Paul (Debbie) Hamilton and countless loving family and friends. A private memorial service will be held for the family. A Celebration of Life will take place at a date to be announced in the spring. Memorial contributions may be made to Evans Scholars Foundation c/o Scioto CC, Joe Hamilton Memorial, 2196 Riverside Dr. Columbus, OH 43221. To share memories or condolences, please visit www.schoedinger.com .