Fred Ballard Hamar

The Lord called Fred Ballard Hamar at age 72 of Skowhegan, Maine to relieve him from his struggle with ALS at 9:05 pm on July 16, 2016 after his friends and family had time to say goodbye. Fred was born November 12th, 1943 in New York City, N.Y., the son of Harry H. Hosey and Doris Ballard. Fred is immediately survived by many caring and loving family members and friends but none so loving and caring as his wife of 37 years who remained unwaveringly by his side providing love and support until God temporarily separated them.

Fred will be remembered by many for his charitable activities and dedication to work. As a talented musician and entertainer Fred often used his gift at nursing homes in the area to ease the suffering of others. He was continually and tirelessly advocating support and contributions to the March of Dimes and American Cancer Society. In fact in 2001 Fred was the second highest money raiser in the state of Maine for the March of Dimes campaign, raising over $10,000, and he was honored by receiving a flag that flew over the United States Capitol. In the continuance of his desire to entertain he was a frequent cast member in a variety of productions at Lakewood Theater in Madison, including Hello Dolly and the Scarlet Letter.

Furthering the spirit of entertainment, Fred played a character named Elfis, and stood in for Santa for many Chirstmas seasons. Like Santa, weather never stopped him from spreading seasonal cheer.

Fred was a veteran, having received an honorable discharge from the United States Navy as a Seaman and he last served aboard the USS Fontier. His military service was a great honor to him and Fred never failed to display his patriotism through the display of flags and emblems. He proudly marched in local parades during Memorial Day and Independence Day and was thrilled to be the flag bearer down the route on several occasions.

He worked in the town of Skowhegan for Dirigo Stitching for 38 years having worked his way from the position of “floor boy” doing odd jobs, cleaning, and night-watch duties, to Vice President and Personnel Manager of the company and earned the trust and respect of both management and employees. Fred never allowed anyone to do anything he wouldn’t do himself and was a consummate leader in all aspects of his life.

Fred was a wonderful pet owner who gave and received love from a variety of furry friends throughout his life. He brought laughter and joy to the people he met all through his life. If you met him there is little doubt you left with a smile and a poignant memory.

Fred succumbed to ALS quickly and was comforted during this time by the staff at Redington Fairview Hospital, Central Maine Medical Center, and Massachusetts General. He was transported by LifeFlight of Maine at the height of his disease by people who treated him like family. Every single nurse, Doctor, technician, and staff member of these fine organizations provided the very best in care and with unsurpassed empathy, to the point that once they got to know him they grieved his suffering with his survivors.

Fred is survived by his wife, Angel Hamar of Skowhegan and four sons, Jerry and his wife Yenny, Alex and his wife Connie, Mike and his wife Nermeen, and Jayme and his spouse Chad. He is further survived by his grandchildren Jason Lee, Rulon, Sara and Tyler; his brother Bill Hainer, wife Dee Hainer, and sister Kathleen McConnell and he is survived by many nieces and nephews whom he took great pleasure in influencing as well as his dear friends Bill Craft and Alan Brooks.

Fred was predeceased by his father, Harry H. Hosey; mother, Dorothy Ballard; beloved twin brother, Jerry Hamar, and son David Hamar.

Fred’s funeral will be held at Smart & Edwards Funeral Home in Skowhegan on Thursday, July 21st, 2016 at 1 pm with calling hours at at the funeral home between 4 and 6 pm on Wednesday, July 20, 2016.

Friends wishing may make donations in Jerry’s name to the Somerset Humane Society, P.O. Box 453, Skowhegan, ME 04976.