George Felton Hammond passed away peacefully at home on August 11, 2022 in his 94th year. He was predeceased by his siblings Neiland, Jean and Jim, and the love of his life, Patricia Ann, who left us on June 26, 2022. George and Pat were married for over 70 years—the handsome fly boy and his stunning wife.
A farm lad from Ironside, Quebec, George was orphaned at an early age and joined the Royal Canadian Airforce at 18. Lieutenant Colonel “Hammy” Hammond had a distinguished 23-year career spanning multiple bases in Canada and Europe, culminating in having the honour of commanding the 409 Voodoo Fighter Squadron (Nighthawks) at CFB Comox. In 1970, he decided to leave the United Armed Forces and settle his family in Victoria where his business interests included auto sales, farming and real estate.
George was an intellectually curious man who managed his own investments for several years and regularly read poetry. He epitomized strength and resilience, persevering in a palliative state for over a year bolstered by his unwavering love for his family. He leaves a legacy of kindness and generosity, treating everyone with respect and dignity, along with a razor-sharp wit.
He is survived by his three sons: Richard (Shannon), John (Susan), Michael (Sandi) and daughter-in-law, Cathy, his grandchildren: Elizabeth (Aaron), David (Cassady), Kate, James (Lauren), Nicole and Bradley, his great-grandchildren: Emmett and Lily, and many loving relatives back East.
The family would like to extend our deepest appreciation to Pacific Coast Health for their dedicated support of George over the past several months, to Dee and Carmen in particular for their loving care, and the many representatives of the VIHA care team. Special thanks to George’s niece, Carol, his ambassador to eastern-based family, whose weekly calls he always looked forward to. Finally, to his best friend, confidante and fellow aviator, Frank. His companionship meant the world to George.
A private family service will be held on August 25th, followed by a tribute to their late Uncle Felton on behalf of his nieces and nephews at the Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa at a later date.
“High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there,
I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air…
Up, up the long, delirious burning blue
I’ve topped the wind-swept heights
with easy grace
Where never lark, or ever eagle flew”
— from “High Flight” by John Gillespie Magee
(an RCAF fighter pilot& war poet)
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Leonard G Jenks
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Hugh and Ruby Hammond Dear Richard, John, Michael and families,
Our deepest sympathy.
Uncle Felton was one of a kind.
Fond memories growing up together in Ironside.
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Linda Martino I feel privileged to have met George! He was definitely a bright spark.
Even as ill as he was, his love of life, sense of humour and decency shone brightly.
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Mark Hammond Deepest sympathy to the Western Hammonds. Great uncle Felton was full of great wit and charm. I loved listening to his stories. He epitomized love of family country and service.
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Shauna Markham What a beautiful tribute! Our family sends our love to yours at your time of loss of not one but two parents/grandparents in close succession.
Thinking of all of you at this difficult time.
Shauna, Colin, Cody and Tate
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Geoff Hadrill and Lorrie Pella Our condolences to the entire Hammond family at this time. While I only met George once, his wit and love of family and life were obvious. I know he will be missed greatly.
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David and Jill Stevens Sorry to hear of George’s passing. We had many fun times on the curling rink. George had a great life. He was a wonderful man .
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Gerald O'Toole He was a beautiful person. He will be missed but never forgotten
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Frank Horton I met George quite a few years ago now.
We were the best of friends from the moment we met.
Constantly talking about our aviation days, while walking the local nieghbour hood.
We shared a great respect for one another.
Over the years our famillies became well know to each other, and we have many memorable moments.
George was a terrific friend and mentor to me, and we were the very best of friends.
I’m very grateful to have had this friendship.
Blue ski and fair winds my friend…..
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Martin Wilkinson George was always about family and living life…I always looked forward to visits with him.
I happily met George through his son Michael back in the earnly 80’s. He always had some good advice or a funny story.
He sure loved his Pat, his sons and all the family.
A very strong man who I will miss dearly.
Soar with the eagles George…Rest Peacecully.
Condolences are extended to the family. It was a privilege and pleasure to have known “Hammy” for many years. May he rest in peace. Ad Astra