Richard Hamill

Back in the 40's, my father, Tony Lauria, served 4 years in Europe fighting WWII. He returned stateside and took a job as a shipping clerk for a small company in the Bronx that sold Pet Supplies. He had an incident with a grappling hook that caught his new wedding band. Colleagues unhooked the ring and he kept his finger.

Fortunately, the owners of the Company were looking for representatives to sell their products in the NY Metropolitan area and its environs. My father and his finger applied and took to the road to begin a 50-odd year-long career as a Manufacturer's Rep. for a half-dozen or so companies in the growing Pet Supplies industry.

Among his customers were the Hamill's, who owned a warehouse in the Bronx. They handled all the lines my father carried. The Hamills and my father became good friends over the years as they watched each other's children grow. When the elder Hamill passed, it was Richie, one of his sons, who grew up in his Dad's warehouse, who remained his friend and became one of his best second generation customers.

When my Dad passed, Richie kept in touch with my mother. When she passed, he kept in touch with me. His calls in remembrance of my father were, and will remain, greatly appreciated.

Today I learned from Richie's brother, Robert, that he passed only a week or so ago. What a fine gentleman he was, keeping tabs on the family of a friend and business associate, making simple phone calls and engaging in light-hearted conversation at holiday times, first with his widow, then his children.

I'll miss those lovely calls.

Today, Robert and I agreed to keep going with Richie's warm and generous gift of keeping in touch with my father's family. We exchanged phone numbers. I'm happy to remember Richie Hamill and continue his elegant tradition with Robert. We will talk often. It will be my honor.

Joanne Lauria Button