Martin "Marty" Thomas Hamel

Martin (Marty) Thomas Hamel, born August 3, 1957, died in the knowledge of his Lord Jesus January 11, 2024 in his West Seattle, Washington apartment after a long struggle with pain and illness. He was preceded in death by his father Joseph Peter Hamel and his mother Elizabeth Alice (Demay) Hamel. He is survived by brothers Joseph Paul, Dennis Frederick (Lisa), Gary Joseph (Susan), Timothy Gerard (Jenny) and Robert Lawrence (Elizabeth) Hamel. He was uncle to Joel (Karri), William (Kate), Gabe and Eli Hamel, and grand uncle to Ellory, Jackson, Brynn and Pierce Hamel.

Marty was never married but was loved by his long-time partner Jennifer (Knowles) and his great friend, confidant and “brother from another mother” Chris Hen (Hamel).

Marty, also known by friends and family as Martone or Marf, was unique in his family. He loved food and cooking, especially big meals on special occasions. This talent was an expression of joy and exuberance. Joy was also part of his general demeanor as he loved to laugh and smile, tell stories and poke fun in general. In his youth a favorite exclamation was “give off.” This could be interpreted variously depending on circumstances.

He also was a great admirer of Joseph Campbell, especially Reflections on the Art of Living. Toward the end of his life he also quoted from the Bible which he had become familiar with through Alcoholics Anonymous.

Marty was a very successful wine and beer steward working for the grocery retailer Fred Meyer. He was loved by the vendors who came to know him especially Todd, John and Chris. They extended themselves even on holidays just because it was Marty.

Marty loved opera, drama and college football, which is a kind of American dramatic opera. His favorite team was the Michigan State Spartans and he later adopted the LSU Tigers.

He was best man to his brother Tim. He loved Seattle, his long-time partner Jennifer and his best friend Chris. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.