Robert C. Hammel, 94, of Hamilton, IL, died Sunday, September 15, 2024 at River Hills Village in Keokuk.
He was born on March 27, 1930 in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, the son of Claude and Margaret (Nelson) Hammel.
He graduated from Carthage High School in Carthage, IL with the Class of 1948.
In December of 1950, Robert was united in marriage to Peggy Jane Money. She preceded him in death on October 19, 2013.
Robert proudly served his country in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Sergeant Major (E9) in the Illinois National Guard.
He was the owner of Hammel’s Floor and Wall Covering in Hamilton, IL from 1961-1979. He also owned and operated three local car washes and many rentals. For several years Robert served as Tax Accessor for Hancock County.
He was a member of the Kiwanis Club and served on an adjunct committee for the Hamilton School District and also served as vice-president of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce.
Robert enjoyed fishing, hunting and horse racing. He loved cars and motorcycles and was still riding his motorcycle at age 81.
He is survived by three daughters, Debra Richards (Bruce) of Jacksonville, IL, Cynthia Adkins (Dick) of Greenville, IL and Nancy Wolber (Gary) of Rock Island, IL and one son, Jeff Hammel (Sandra) of Hamilton, IL, thirteen grandchildren and twenty-six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by three sisters, Dorlene Nicklas of Mission Viejo, California, Linda Keene of Lena, IL and Ellen Temperly (Glenn) of Cuba City, WI.
Besides his wife, Robert was also preceded in death by his parents, one granddaughter, Lacy Hammel, one sister, Donna Piper and one brother in infancy.
A private family service will be held at a later date.
On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com
The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk is assisting the family with arrangements.
