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Melvin Hammond Obituary

Melvin L. Hammond Grand Ledge Mel went home to be with his Lord on Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at the age of 76. He was born and raised in Lansing on September 2, 1933, the son of Lewis and Elsie (Joslyn) Hammond. He worked his entire career for Oldsmobile from the time he attended GMI until his retirement in 1993. He enjoyed golfing, singing, dancing, traveling, spending time with friends and family and "making sawdust" in his workshop. He loved and followed his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and was deeply involved in his church. He sang in the choir, taught Sunday School and was a lay minister. Mel was part of the Young At Heart (YAH) singers. He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Lynn and Margaret Munroe; brother, Bill Hammond, sisters-in-law, Kit and Esther Hammond and daughter-in-law, Alicia Hammond. Surviving are his loving wife, Mary; children, Steve (Marta) Hammond of Springfield, MO, Rick (Dee) Hammond of Lansing, Tom (Heather) Hammond of St.Johns and Ginny (Mike) Didur of Ludington; grandchildren, Steve and Ryan Bretz, Maggie (John) Diemer, Christopher Didur and Brian Hammond; great grandchildren, Joshua and Alex Bretz, Asher Diemer; brother, Bob Hammond; brother-in-law, Lynn (Barb) Munroe; many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Mel's life will be held Friday, 11:00 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 7533 W. St. Joseph. The family will receive friends one hour before service time at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 7533 W. St. Joseph, Lansing, MI 48917, Youth For Christ, P.O. Box 80555, Lansing, MI 48908 or Young Life, P.O. Box 2920 Colorado Springs, CO 80901. Friends may sign the online guestbook at www.palmerbush.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lansing State Journal on Oct. 15, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Melvin Hammond

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November 9, 2009

I spent a week in the hospital last summer after getting injured at work. Going in I had no idea that it would be one of the best weeks of my summer. My hospital roomie was Mel. I'm just a 20 year old college kid, but Mel and I clicked right away and quickly became friends. I wasn't allowed to eat because of my injury, but Mel and I always joked with the doctor (who was a little too serious) that Mel ordered me tons of food the second the nurses left the room. I will never forget that week as long as I live. Never would I have guessed that being in the hospital could be such a blessing (and such a fun time). Mel's humor and love for the Lord left a big impression on me and I look forward to meeting again at the Lord's table in heaven when he won't have to sneak food for me :) But seriously, I grew quite fond of Mel in the short time I got to know him, so my prayers are with his family who must be missing him like crazy. Your missing him is a testimony to the great love you shared. Mel's impact lives on in people like me and me who know God's goodness just a little bit more because of knowing His faithful servant, Mel.

October 17, 2009

MAY THE LORD BRING YOU HIS PEACE LOVE TOM AND CHARLENE BASSETT PALMETTO FL.

Mike & Jan Schewe

October 16, 2009

We were sorry to hear of Mel's death and want to extend our love and sympathy to all the family. Mel was a true gentleman and a fine Christian witness. We were privileged to know him.

Joy Wolfe

October 15, 2009

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. I will always cherish the time I had to spend with the Hammond family: Mel and Tom helping craft my pinewood derby cars, playing bocce ball, and a great time on Mackinaw Island on Mel and Mary's 50th wedding anniversary. I wish the family "true joy" as they celebrate Mel's life and his homegoing. Blessings.

The McBrides

October 15, 2009

Mel was a fine teacher of the Christian faith. His great teaching extended beyond the class or group session into the full-time example he lived as a servant of The Lord, kind friend and neighbor, loving father and grandfather, and devoted husband. He was a man of great principles, self-discipline, and wisdom. The world has been richly blessed by his life and the legacy he has left. Blessings to all the family, you are in our prayers.

Mary McLellan

October 15, 2009

The Lord sure choose a very special one to bring home. How he will be missed down here. Mel's humor, gentle yet strong spirit, solid witness and wonderful family will bring the best of memories to all who loved him. My love and comfort especially to you Mary. My love and prayers are with you.

Jackie Bass

October 15, 2009

Mel was such an amazing witness for our Lord and he had the kindest personality. I will miss his music, his wit and his calm nature.
Love you, Mary

October 15, 2009

I played golf with Mel in the past and
was sorry to hear of his passing. I
would like to express my sympathy to
his family. Donald Zimmer

Kathleen Rubie

October 15, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

October 15, 2009

Dee, Rick, and family. So sorry for your loss. We hope your good memories will help you through this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you. Dave & Pauline Baert & family

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