Damon Roosevelt "Pops" Hamel

HAMEL, Damon Roosevelt "Pops" - Died at home surrounded by his family Sunday, February 13, 2005 in Elk Grove, CA. After a year-long battle with Alzheimer's. Born in Holdenville, OK May 18, 1936. Survived by his loving mother, R. T Hamel, his children Orlinda Hamel, Dornell Hamel, Cornell Hamel, Carolyn Galloway, Sandra Hamet-Dailey; daughter-in-law Diane Hamel and his wife Linda Hamel of Brewton AL; also survived by his brothers, Lionel Hamel Jr., Dale Hamel, Clarence Hamel and sisters Betty Glass and Bobby Sue Milton. Preceded in death by his father Lionel Hamel Sr., brothers, Kenneth, Lynwood Thomas "Tommy" and Russell Hamel. His late wife of 26 years Dorothy Hamel and second wife Edna Cheetam-Hamel. He leaves 12 grandchildren and one great granddaughter and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. Damon attended Sequoia High School in Redwood City. Graduated from San Jose State with a bachelor's degree in Sociology where he specialized in child development. He was hired on June 27, 1972, as a Juvenile Supervisor III, at the San Mateo County Probation Department's Juvenile Hall at Hillcrest. He served in this position for 20 years, retiring on March 31, 1992. Damon was a mentor, father figure, friend, and a wonderful role model to many of the young Juvenile Supervisor I, II & III's that started their careers in the Juvenile Hall. He was often called "Pops" by the staff and the hundreds of minors that were housed in the Juvenile Hall. Damon loved working with the minors and upon his retirement, he decided to return, and worked as an Extra Help Juvenile Supervisor from April 2, 1992 to September 11, 1993. Damon loved to travel throughout the US and coordinate family reunions. He will be greatly missed. Quiet hour will be held Thursday evening, February 17th from 5pm till 6pm at Jones Mortuary, 660 Donohue St., East Palo Alto. A memorial service in celebration of Damon's life will be held Friday, February 18, 2005 at 11am at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 134 Hemlock St., Redwood City, where his family has been a member for 55 years. Interment will be at Alta Mesa Cemetery in Palo Alto immediately following the service. A reception in honor of Damon's life will be held at Mt. Zion Baptist Church immediately after the interment. Flowers can be sent to Jones Mortuary, 660 Donohue St., East Palo Alto, CA 94303. Family would appreciate any donations to be made to San Mateo County Probation Dept., Juvenile Hall Activity Fund, Hillcrest Juvenile Hall, 21 Tower Rd., San Mateo, CA. 94402 Attn: Christy Morrill.