Albert "Ab" Edward Hammell

With profound sadness we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend, Albert Edward Hammell, on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at Sunset Haven Nursing Home in Carnduff, SK.

Albert is survived by his three daughters: Elizabeth (Claude) Topping, Marjorie (Mike) Lane, Laurie (Chuck) Ray; grandchildren & great-grandchildren: Marty (Christie), Meg, Owen, Ty Topping, April (Brent), Marlee Basko; Carly (Sam), Elliott Rech, Abey (Matthew), Vaugh, Ashton Scaglione; Nadine (Jeff), Harper, Connor Perreaux, Kyle (Nicole), Henry, Grace Ray; plus numerous nieces & nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Tom & Veva Hammell; wife Eunice Hammell; grandson Justin Ray; brother and sister-in-law John & Pearl Hammell; sister and brother-in-law Phyllis & Charlie Shatford; niece Betty Hammell.

Ab was born on May 9, 1929 at his home in the Butterfield District south of Pierson, Manitoba. Growing up he rode horse back to the Butterfield School where he attended until he took up farming and raising cattle with his dad and brother John, and later his nephew Larry.

He married Eunice Chambers on March 25, 1952. The couple raised three daughters: Beth, Marj and Laurie (the “Original Hammell Girls”), providing a very happy home, full of love, patience, kindness as well as humour. Teaching by example how to work hard, putting others first and to value family above all else.  Love and kindness were the themes of his life, he gave it freely, and in return he was surrounded by it.  The farm was a hub for gatherings with extended family, friends and neighbours.  Many Sundays found the house full of adults and yard full of kids.

Ab was a dedicated husband, adored father, idolized grandfather and great-grandfather (even though he claimed to “hate kids”).  He was respected by family and friends, was a dependable neighbour and supported the community.  He was a quiet man with a wicked sense of humor, always with a twinkle in his eye.  He was a shrewd negotiator, known to make up contracts with his grandchildren, where they agreed to work for less wages than he charged them for rent.  They were always agreeable, trusting him whole heartedly.

He was an avid reader, liked playing cards (especially whist), enjoyed traveling although he didn't take the time to do it very often.  Ab was always followed around the farm by his dog and had a trail of cats whenever going to the barn.

In 2016, after 87 years on the farm, Ab and Eunice moved to Brandon, MB.  Ab to Rotary Villas Retirement Home and Eunice next door to Fairview Nursing Home where he faithfully visited her twice a day, every day.  In December 2022, due to health reasons, Ab moved to Sunset Haven Nursing Home in Carnduff, SK, where he was closer to family.

The funeral service for Ab was held at the Pierson United Church, Pierson, MB. on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. (MB. time) with (rev.) Heather Sandilands officiating. Interment followed at the Pierson Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Albert can be made to the Pierson Cemetery Fund (c/o Municipality of Two Borders, Box 429, Melita, MB. R0M 1L0) or to a charity of one's choice.

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