Frederic Crawford Hamilton Jr.

Fred was raised in Denver, Colorado, where he graduated from the University of Denver. He later received his MBA from Babson College, after which he returned to his Texas roots. In Houston, he began his career in banking. Creative, entrepreneurial, and always willing to pursue a new opportunity, Fred ultimately found his way into the venture capital world before eventually working for himself.

While living in Houston, Fred met the love of his life, Emory Alexander. The two married and moved to San Francisco where Fred continued his work in venture capital and where they welcomed their daughter, Hellie. They eventually returned to Texas, settled in San Antonio, where they built a life together for the next 35 years.

Fred was a quiet and kind man, fiercely loyal to those he loved. Though shy by nature, those fortunate enough to know him well knew him as one of the most caring, generous, and witty people they would ever meet. He possessed a dry, unforgettable sense of humor and a gift for delivering one-liners that left friends and family in stitches. He could be a bit of a curmudgeon at times, but beneath that exterior was a deeply compassionate heart and an unwavering devotion for those he cared about.

He was adventurous and loved the outdoors. Whether flying helicopters to oil rigs at the age of 14, searching for tarpon in the Florida Keys, paddling a canoe in search of salmon, or spending time in the duck blind with friends, Fred was always ready for the next challenge and the next story. Some of his happiest moments were spent outdoors with people he loved.

Above all else, Fred cherished his family. He shared an extraordinary bond with his daughter, who was also his best friend. They spoke on the phone countless times each day, sharing everything from life's biggest decisions to its smallest moments. He was her most influential teacher, greatest ally, and dearest friend. Their friendship was one of the great joys of his life and a reflection of the deep love and loyalty that defined him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Emory Alexander Hamilton; his daughter, Hellie Hamilton Cottingham and her husband, Charlie Cottingham; his grandsons, Frederic William Cottingham “Memo” and Charles Campbell Cottingham; his mother, Jane Hamilton; his sister, Christy McGraw and her husband, Ted McGraw; his brothers, Tom Hamilton and his wife, Eugenie Hamilton, and Crawford Hamilton and his wife, Sue Hamilton; as well as nine nieces and nephews.

A private family service will be held in Maine in late August.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to MD Anderson Cancer Center, https://gifts.mdanderson.org/.

Fred will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. His family takes comfort in knowing that his kindness, generosity, loyalty, and laughter will continue to live on in the many people whose lives he touched.