Michael James Hamel

Michael James Hamel, known affectionately by those who loved him as Mike or Mountain Mike, was born on July 5, 1950, in Lawrence, MA. His life was a vibrant tapestry of love, laughter, and an unquenchable spirit of adventure. He passed away peacefully at home on October 10, 2023, after a long battle with LBD and Vascular dementia. He is leaving a legacy that will continue to echo through the lives of his family and friends.

Mike was a loving husband, a dedicated father, and a doting grandfather. His zest for life was as expansive as the mountains he loved so dearly. His playful wit could lighten any room, and he brought joy and laughter to those around him. He married the love of his life, Denise, on September 12, 1971, and they shared a lifetime of beautiful memories together. His love for his son Chad was evident in the way he cheered him on at every basketball game, from childhood all the way through college. He also adored his granddaughters, Riley and Madeline, cherishing every moment he spent with them.

Mike's adventurous spirit led him to a life that was anything but ordinary. He spent his early years in Salem, NH, Twin Mountain, NH, and Breckinridge, CO, before settling in Meridian, Idaho. He was a successful graphic arts company owner who retired in 2012. But Mike's true passion lay in the great outdoors. He loved skiing, hiking, golfing, and was an ardent supporter of all Boston sports teams. His love for the mountains earned him the nickname "Mountain Mike," a moniker that captured his adventurous spirit perfectly.

He was thoughtful and generous with his time, often volunteering at Cannon Mountain, a program he started with his wife, Denise. There, he would give tours, showcasing the best ski runs and sharing the history of the area. His love for Cannon Mountain was so profound, he worked as a tram operator, providing guests with a captivating narrative of skiing and local history. He was also a proud member of the 4000-Footer Club of the White Mountains, a testament to his adventurous spirit and love for nature.

"A life well lived is a precious gift, of hope and strength and grace, from someone who has made our world a brighter, better place" - Unknown

Michael's life was indeed a precious gift to all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Denise; his son, Chad, his daughter in law, Angie, his granddaughters, Riley and Madeline; his brother, Daniel and his wife Jean, several sister and brother in laws; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lionel and Helen Hamel.

In celebration of Mike's life, a private funeral will be held, and he will be laid to rest at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will take place in the spring in New Hampshire.

We invite you to share your memories and photos of Michael on his memorial page. Your remembrances of his adventurous spirit, loving nature, and witty humor will serve as a lasting tribute to a man who touched so many lives. Through these stories, we can keep the spirit of Mountain Mike alive, honoring his memory as we remember the joy, love, and adventure he brought into our lives.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in memory of Mike Hamel to the Dementia Society of America. https://www.dementiasociety.org/donate. Please use link on page below. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vida Funeral Home.