Donald J. Hamilton Jr.

June 19, 1942 - February 8, 2017

Donald J. Hamilton Jr. age 74 of Marcellus, MI passed away at home February 8, 2017. He was born June 19, 1942 in Plainwell, MI the son of Donald J. Sr. and Beatrice (Polamateer) Hamilton. On July 6th, 1963, he married Kathleen M. O’Connell who survives. He worked for a Pharmaceutical Company as a machine repairman. He was a member of the NRA and the Marcellus Lions Club. Donald had a heart transplant on September 23, 1999, and has chosen to donate his body to science, so that he can help in the fight against heart disease for others. Donald “Bink” Hamilton was also an avid hunter and enjoyed repairing cars in his spare time. He was awarded the Boone and Crockett award by the North American Big Game Committee and was very proud to receive the accolades. His ready smile and genuine laughter will be greatly missed by all who knew him and loved him. The family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to the U or M transplant team and all of the healthcare professionals who provided years at care and comfort. He is survived by his wife Kathleen of 54 years, two daughters, Carrie Hamilton of Marcellus and Tina (John) Thompson of Kalamazoo, MI.; five grandchildren, Erin Kathleen Hamilton, Tucker Donald, Ethan John, Skyler Dee and Hannah Marie Thompson; two brothers, David (Joy) Hamilton of Arizona and William (Elizabeth) Hamilton of Schoolcraft, MI, his sister-in-law Deborah Hamilton of Kalamazoo ; step-mother Barbara Hamilton of Arizona, many nieces, nephews and his very special friends, Marv and Roberta Ives, Ron Hamming, Elaine Johnston, Tim Bainbridge and Ron and Jane Demerick. He was preceded in death by one brother Steven Hamilton and his parents. The family will have a private Celebration of Life at a later date. Arrangements were handled by the Mater-Ralston Funeral Home, Marcellus, MI Memorial contributions may be directed to the Lions Club Scholarship Fund. Online condolences may be left at www.materralstonfuneralhome.com