Richard Hamilton

Richard Hamilton, 94, of Hummingbird Hill, Reading PA, passed away Tuesday August 2nd, 2022, in in his home surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Buffalo NY in 1927 to Arthur and Nora (Smith) Hamilton. He was the husband of Elizabeth Himlin (Rutherford) for 41 years and member of the First Presbyterian Church of Reading (now Park Road Presbyterian) where he served as an Elder and a Trustee.

A veteran of World War II, he served in the Army at Fort Knox and in Germany with the Division of the 1st Constabulary Regiment in the Motorcycle Platoon and later with the Provost Marshals Office.

After honorable discharge, he attended the University of Buffalo. He was then employed by Aetna Casualty & Surety Co for 35 years, most of which was as Engineering Manager at the Reading Branch office. He was a Professional Member Emeritus of the American Society of Safety Engineers and had served as President of the Lehigh Valley Chapter. He also served on the board of directors of the National Safety Council L.V. Chapter.

In addition to his wife, Betty, he is survived by his sons Paul and his wife Cathy of Greenville SC, Peter and his wife Jeanne of Sinking Spring PA, John of Austin TX, plus Betty’s children Karen Wolf and her husband Tim of West Lawn PA, Ellen Pack and her fiancé Doug Miller of Ephrata PA, and Donald Himlin widower of wife Evelyn of Sinking Spring PA. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and a throng of nieces and nephews.

Richard had a love of life, family, and a strong Christian faith. He and his wife Betty loved travel, music, cooking, and spending time with family and friends. His favorite vacation was at family cottages on “The River" in Thousand Islands NY.

Richard was always willing to join in, always ready for a good story or a good laugh, always encouraging, always striving to be engaged, always moving forward, and leaving the past behind. He had respect for everyone and was always a supportive and loving husband, father, grandfather, and uncle. He will be remembered and missed by all who knew him.

He will be buried at the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at the Park Road Presbyterian Church on Saturday September 10th at 11:00AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions should be made in honor of Richard to your favorite charity