William Mitchell Howard "Bill" Hammett

William Mitchell Howard Hammett, known to his family and friends as Bill, departed this life on August 7, 2024, at the age of 80. His final moments were spent in tranquility, seated beneath a tree by the gentle waters of Passamaquoddy Bay, with a view of Campobello Island, Eastport, Maine. Born on June 21, 1944, in the historic city of Old Town, he has returned to the land that bore him.

Bill's academic journey began at Southern Illinois University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. His pursuit of knowledge continued at the University of Chicago, where he was awarded a Master's degree. His expertise in economics led him to esteemed positions, such as President and Trustee of the Manhattan Institute, New York, where he exerted a lasting influence on economic scholarship, and public policy.

He served his nation with honor in the Army, from 1968 to 1970.

Bill was a man of many pursuits, finding joy in fishing, sailing, canoeing and kayaking. His adventures on the waters of the West Coast and streams of Maine were among his most cherished pastimes. An ardent traveler, he relished in the discovery of new cultures and annals of history, an interest that dovetailed with his love of literature. His residence was adorned with antiques, each with its own tale that he delighted in recounting.

Bill leaves behind his daughter, Kelly Morin (Dudley) Palmer of West End, North Carolina; his granddaughter, Caroline Morin Palmer of Washington DC, and cherished cousins from coast to coast. He joins in peace, his grandfather, Dr. Walter MH Hammett of Baltimore, Maryland; his father, retired Major Walter HM Hammett, and his mother Lillian J Hammett, née Morin, of Delray Beach, Florida.

In remembrance, Bill is celebrated for his intellectual rigor, his challenging discourse, and his resilient spirit, which served as an inspiration to all who knew him. His memory will be treasured and his legacy enduring.