Michael J. Hammond

Michael J. Hammond, "Red", 59, a resident of Fitzwilliam, NH, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, October 12, 2017.

He was born October 20, 1957 in New London, CT, the son of Earl and Gertrude (Hill) Hammond (later Jorgensen). For many years he worked as a long- distance truck driver for Aubuchon Hardware, based out of Westminster, Massachusetts.

He was devoted to his family and enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his children, grandchildren, and his friend Peggy and her large family. The outdoors was where he spent most of his time: fishing, hunting, and enjoying the solitude of nature. He got pleasure from hunting and was an avid collector of the weapons which were used. He enjoyed spending time in Montana, hunting with his good friend Wayne. He and Peggy also loved going tag-saling. He had a very warm sense of humor and loved to surround himself with the people who meant the most to him. He also had a very special place in his heart for animals, especially his former dog "TwoBits".

He is survived by his son Joseph Hammond and his wife Karyn of Hinsdale, his daughter Jamie Hammond of Hinsdale, and four grandchildren: Emma, Tanner, Julia, and Colby, all of Hinsdale. He also leaves his brothers James Hooper, David Hooper, Earl F. Hammond, Jr., and Romie Hammond, his sister Gloria Marrotte and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He is also survived by his ex-wife, friend, and mother of his children, Kim Saunders. Additionally, he is survived by his companion Peggy Hakala and her children and their spouses: Brenda and Mark Huntoon of Troy, Shane and Jenn Hakala of Surry, and Sharmen and Tracey LaBarre of Swanzey, and their many respective children and grandchildren, including: Nick, Ryan, and Lyndsay Huntoon; Dylan, Laine, and Baylee Hakala; and Brandon, PJ, and Jamie LaBarre. Also he is survived by numerous friends, including Wayne and Cindy Hastings of Montana. He is predeceased by his sister Elaine Hooper and his dearest friend Kenny Merrifield, Jr.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, October 27, 2017 at 1pm in the Evergreen Cemetery, Richmond Rd, Winchester, NH. A reception will immediately follow the ceremony. There will be no public calling hours. The family asks that those who attend the services dress in casual attire, as Mike would have preferred.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Monadnock Humane Society, 101 West Swanzey Rd, Swanzey, NH, 03446.