James Alexander Hamilton

10 August 1923 – 29 April 2012

Too soon he left us. Our hearts are now shrouded in sadness and sorrow. And a new star shall shine brightly in the nighttime sky. Son to James Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Bowers. Brother to Sarah Brown (Regina, 1921). Husband of 45 years to Joan Marie DeCarlo (November, 1999). Father to Cheryl, Terrie-Lee and Heather (Brian Sharpe). Breanne’s own Poppa. Born on Dundas Street in Toronto and raised in Campbellford, Jim joined the RCNVR in 1942 and served in HMCS Cobourg, HMCS Iroquois and HMCS New Glasgow. His wartime service included numerous trans-Atlantic convoy runs and three missions to Murmansk, Russia. In 1946 Jim laid a wreath at the Peterborough Cenotaph in memory of naval comrades. He had the unprecedented honour of doing so for 65 consecutive years each Remembrance Day. Jim’s death marks the passing of the last founding member of the Peterborough Naval Association. He organized the 1st and 25th national reunions of the Royal Canadian Naval Association and represented the PNA on numerous veterans affairs committees and at community events. An active member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Jim painstakingly sifted through local naval records as his contribution to the Wall of Honour. Throughout his 45 years at CGE, Jim was an active union supporter which reflected his respect for working men and women. A life member of the NDP, he spent endless hours screen painting election signs and monitoring finances. He was a school board trustee (Lily Lake) and a long-time goal judge for the Peterborough Petes and Lakers. A member of St. Giles Presbyterian Church since 1954, he served on the Board of Managers and was an elder for many years. In 2009, Jim was recognized with a County of Peterborough Award for Volunteer and Community Service. Previously, he won the Smith Township Gold Blue Box. In his memory, please register for organ donation; share stories of your experiences and dreams with loved ones; and, if desired, consider a contribution to a charity of your choice. Copper bids farewell: “Thanks for all the treats, Poppa.” A Naval Association Service will be held at 10:30 am followed by a memorial service at 11:00 am on Thursday, May 3, 2012 at ST. GILES PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 785 Park Street, South. Arrangements entrusted to COMSTOCK FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTRE, 356 Rubidge Street.

But to every sailor comes time to drop anchor.

Haul in the sails, and make the lines fast;

You deep water dreamer, your journey is over,

You’re safe in the harbour at last.

Eric Bogle, 1984