Obituary of Francis Hammel

Of Grand Blanc, age 71, died Tuesday, July 24, 2012, at his home. The funeral service will take place 12:00 noon, Monday, July 30, 2012, at the Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services in Mt. Morris. Chaplain Goodman Cox will officiate. Burial to follow with graveside military honors conducted by the American Legion Post #158. The family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home Sunday, July 29, 2012, from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm and Monday, from 10:00 am until the time of service at 12:00 noon. Those desiring, may direct memorial contributions to the discretion of the family. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Francis was born December 2, 1940, in Mt. Morris, Michigan, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert and Beatrice (Lovett) Hammel. Frank proudly served in the United States Army. He then worked for General Motors-Buick in Flint, where he met his wife, Joyce Gilmore. Frank and Joyce were united in marriage July 4, 1980. In Frank's spare time, he enjoyed trains, piloting, woodworking, and foreign, sci-fi, comedy, and western movies. Frank leaves to cherish his memory, wife of 32 years, Joyce; five children, Tracy Gilmore, Thomas Gilmore, Francis Hammel and life partner, Matthew Cassidy, Jean and husband, Paul Preston, and Beatrice Brown; eleven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; six siblings, Nola Knapp, James and wife, Doris Hammel, Charles and wife, Lola Hammel, William and wife, Nita Hammel, and Raymond and wife, Gail Hammel; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by parents and brother, Ed Hammel.