Lawrence (Larry) J. Hamelin

With great sadness and heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and granddfather Lawrence (Larry) Hamelin at the age of 79. He was predeceased by his parents, 4 brothers, and 3 sisters. Larry is survived by his adoring wife, Marilyn, of 50 years and his beloved daughters Kim (Bill) Hest, children Cole, Riley, and Brody; Kerri Hawser, children Cameron and Lukus; Tammy (Mike) Paquette, children Allison and Jaime; Nicole (Ryan) Neuwirth, children Ben and Scotty. He is also survived by his close brother-in-law Jim (Pat) Schellenberg, Dennis (Jackie) Schellenberg, Wayne (Marilyn) Schellenberg, Arlene Klassen and Jean Hamelin, as well as many nieces, nephews and the wonderful friends in his life.

Lawrence (Larry) Joseph Hamelin was born on September 17, 1937 at St. Boniface, Manitoba. At the age of seven, Larry and his family moved to Port Alberni where he began grade one and learned to speak English because he spoke only French. He started working as a young man at the pulp mill in Port Alberni and retired 43 years later.

Larry and Marilyn met in Vancouver on 1964 on a blind date. They fell in love immediately. Because Marilyn lived in Vancouver and Larry lived on the Island, they were only able to see each other once a month. In spite of that, their romance flourished and they married on July 2, 1966. Four beautiful daughters followed and completed their family.

As a young family man he took great pleasure in the many camping trips, the huge bonfires on the beach and all the fishing trips. During their retirement, Larry and Marilyn took wonderful trips including cruises and many road trips. They also enjoyed exploring our Island and their special spots at the water front enjoying the wildlife with a cup of coffee.

Anyone who knew Larry would say he never had a negative word to say about anyone. Being a life-long learner many conversations were started with the words “I have a question for you”. These conversations often ended in his warm, heartfelt laugh. Because Larry was a humble man we learned so much about him from what his friends and co-workers shared with us.

Because he had Christ in his heart it gave him great peace and his family great comfort. He is now safe in the arms of our heavenly Father. Until we meet again. We love you and miss you.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Larry’s memory to the Canadian Cancer Society, 3030B 3rd Avenue, Port Alberni, BC V9Y 2A5 or the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 401-495 Dunsmuir Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 6B9. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.chapelofmemories.ca