Marie Agnes was born on August 2, 1922 in Bentinck Township. She joined older brother Richard “Dick” and parents Walter and Mary (Hopkins) Bailey on their family farm, two miles north of Allan Park. Marie attended school in Lamlash, before receiving her high school entrance certificate in July 1935. Sadly, at this time, Marie’s mother, Mary, was ill and Marie’s help was needed at home, so she was unable to attend high school. In the following years, Marie helped support her mom and grandparents who lived nearby, always staying busy with a variety of tasks around the farm.
In the early 1940’s Marie met the man of her dreams, Harvey Richard Hamel, when out with friends. The two hit it off immediately and began dating. After a four year courtship, they were wed at the Elmwood United Church on May 18, 1946. Their first residence was a farm on the outskirts of Hanover, before moving to the 4th of Bentinck. It was here where the Hamel family began to grow, with the arrival of Marie’s three sons, Ivan (1953), Ralph (1957) and Percy (1959). In addition to caring for her young family, Marie also helped Harvey with a variety of farm chores, always staying busy. In 1962 the Hamels made the move to the 12th of Bruce were they remained for a few years before returning to the 4th of Bentinck in the mid 60’s. In 1967 they moved to the 25 Sideroad in Elderslie.
When the boys became a little older Marie began working for the Dallimores in Chesley at the Nursing Home. Her caring personality led her to this type of work and she enjoyed her role within the housekeeping department. Sadly, Marie’s life forever changed in 1982 when her beloved Harvey died. She soon downsized and moved into Chesley, settling into her new apartment on 4th St. S.E.. Retirement afforded Marie some extra free-time and allowed her to spend more time with family and friends. She loved knitting and often showcased her talents by making a new afghan, toque, pair of mittens or a scarf for her grandchildren or someone in need. Marie was also a fabulous cook and was renowned for her covered apple pie! She also enjoyed collecting Royal Dalton throughout the years.
Marie loved her music, whether it was singing herself or listening to something on the radio. She also enjoyed soaps on TV, and no day was complete without catching the latest episode of “The Young and the Restless.” Although not much for travelling, the Hamels enjoyed a variety of day-trips together throughout the years. Marie was an avid reader, having read her Bible cover to cover as well as picking up any novel that had a good story. In recent years her eyesight began to fail her, but that did not deter her from reading. She then chose large print novels and used a magnifying glass to take in the stories she loved.
Marie was a gentle, kind and loving woman. Ralph recalled an incident in his childhood whereby he was playing in the barnyard and fell directly on a cow patty. The front of his shirt was a mess and he was just a little upset, to say the least. He searched out his mom and found her at the house. She reassured him that everything was going to be okay and simply rolled his shirt inwards and removed it from Ralph’s head with ease. Another major crisis averted, thanks to mom! 🙂
Marie was very independent, never wanting to bother or put out those around her. She was also determined. In other words, if she made her mind up or decided she was going to do something, there was very little you were going to do to stop her. She had a great sense of humour and often surprised some people with what came out of her mouth. There was never a dull day when Marie was around.
Marie’s faith was very important to her. In addition to reading her Bible, she attended church regularly and was a member of St. John’s United Church in Chesley. The arrival of her grandchildren and more recently great-grandchildren brought much-added joy to Marie’s life. She absolutely adored spending time with them and hearing of the accomplishments in day-to-day life. Stories of times with her grandchildren will remain with them for the remainder of their lives.
In 2009, Marie decided to move to Hanover as her eyesight was beginning to decline and she wanted some additional support. She took the move quite well and began caring for and mothering many of the other residents. The constant caregiver, Marie gave of her time and efforts whenever she could to make those around her feel more loved and supported. She was truly a remarkable woman.
In 2016, Marie suffered a set-back when she had two strokes a day apart. She was 94, yet extremely determined, and after a week in the wheelchair returned to walking with the help of a walker. Although slowed down, she enjoyed reminiscing with friends and family about days gone by. Marie had another stroke in late July and passed away on Friday, August 21, 2020 in her 99th year.
Loving mother of Ivan (Janice) Hamel of Hanover and Ralph Hamel of Walkerton. Beloved grandmother of Dwight (Cindy), Jeremy (Tina), Jason (Gill), Laura, Martin, Steve (Jenn) and great-grandmother of Vanessa, Alexa, Emma, Cole, Paysen and Jayva. Marie was predeceased by her husband Harvey (1982), son Percy (2018), brother Richard Bailey (2005) and her parents Walter and Mary (Hopkins) Bailey.
Visitation will be held at Rhody Family Funeral Home, Chesley on Wednesday, August 26, 2020 from 1 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 2 p.m. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, 25 people will be allowed in the building at any given time, and visitors must wear a mask and follow physical distancing rules. Interment in Chesley Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the MS Society of Canada would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
