Michael G. Hammitt

Michael G. Hammitt, 65, of Salisbury, died at 10:16 a.m. on Thursday, March 17, 2016, surrounded by his loving family, listening to Jamey Johnson, at St. John's Hospice. Michael was born the fifth of eight children on December 23, 1950, in Springfield, to parents he adored, Franklin L. Hammitt and Theresa B. (Fleck) Hammitt. His siblings affectionately refer to him as "Saint Michael." He was unquestionably the favorite. Working alongside his father and brother at their family service station, he was introduced to hard work and his life long love of cars. He graduated Springfield High School in 1968 and earned his Bachelor's degree from Sangamon State University in business. Michael served his country in the U.S. Army and was employed with the State of Illinois Department of Revenue for 35 years. He married his beautiful bride, Rose Marie Livingston, 43 years ago, on December 30, 1972. He was a wonderful husband who worked hard to build her dream home where she could have her horses right outside their front window. Together, they traveled, enjoyed spending time on their farm, kept a garden, hosted family and friends, rode motorcycles, acquired antique and classic cars, and enjoyed life. Their greatest joy was raising their daughter, Anna. Michael taught Anna the importance of work ethic and to always do the best you can do. He was always involved with her activities. He was a loving and supportive father. Michael excelled at anything he put his mind to. He loved Sprint car racing, working on and building cars, riding motorcycles, and spending time with his family. He especially loved watching his granddaughter, Delaney, and his grandson, Brycen. He took extreme pride in caring for his mother over the years. He could almost always be found helping someone - no task was too small or too great. The world would be a better place if everyone had even an ounce of his good heart. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and the Jacksonville Antique Car Club. Michael was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patricia Sauer; and brother, Frank Hammitt. He is survived by his wife, Rose Hammitt of Salisbury; daughter, Anna (Timothy) Varvel of Springfield; two grandchildren, Brycen and Delaney Varvel; siblings, JoAnne (Tom) Bartolomucci of Springfield, Barbara (Martin) Grosboll of Kingwood, TX, Mary (Steve Manning) Ross of Eagle, CO, Theresa (Bill Woods) Hammitt of St. Louis, MO, and Beverly (Mark) Hopkins of Springfield; brother-in-law, James Livingston; sister-in-law, Mary (Bill) Hayen; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, March 21, 2016 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. The visitation will begin with a prayer service. Funeral Ceremony: 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 22, 2016 at St. Joseph Church, 1345 N. 6th St., Springfield with Rev. Steven Janoski, celebrant. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors provided by the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County. Memorial contributions may be made to: St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 1345 N. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62702 or St. Joseph's Home, 3306 S. 6th Street Rd., Springfield, IL 62703.