Donald E. Hamilton

Donald Hamilton, 91, passed away Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at the Baptist Health Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Scotia, with his loving son at his side. Born in Schenectady in 1920 to Anna and Earl Hamilton, Don graduated from Mt. Pleasant HS in 1938 and joined the Navy.

He served as Aviation Machinist Mate first class in both Atlantic and Pacific theaters, on the heavy cruiser USS St. Louis and the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV8). The Hornet carried the aircraft used in Doolittle's attack on Tokyo and later at the battle of Santa Cruz Islands the Hornet was sunk by numerous kama kazi and torpedo hits. Don and his shipmates had to swim for it.

Near the end of the war he was sent to flight school and became rated as Chief, aviation pilot. He flew just about anything with wings or a rotor (he was only the 59th certified helicopter pilot in the US military) but particularly enjoyed working with full scale radio control aircraft. He accepted a commission to flight officer, transitioned from prop to jet and spent the last five years of Naval service as utility/test pilot at USN Johnsville research and development center.

After 26 years Don retired from the Navy, flew telephone cable inspection routes with a Bell G47 (the "MASH" helicopter) and in 1966 was hired by the NYS Department Of Environmental Conservation's aviation division. For 16 years he enjoyed the fellowship and satisfaction of another highly varried flight
schedule: from transporting the governor to fish stocking in the Adirondacks; search and rescue to fire fighting using DEC's venerable TBM torpedo bomber! He loved it all. Don retired from DEC in 1982 and set about refining the art of relaxation - and he did very well!

Don was predeceased by his beloved wife of 68 years, Ella Mae (Carr). He is survived by his son, David, daughter in law, Michelle (Scott), grandchildren, Emlen and Melissa, great granddaughter Maya, three cousins, Phyllis Weinberg, Gwen Teetor and Lois Potrzuski, and a number of nieces and nephews. (Also, a thumbs up to good friends Gerry Tyrrell and Bud Hill - thanks guys)

Per Don's request there will be no viewing or visiting hours. A short blessing will be offered during the regular service at Malta Ridge United Methodist Church at 10AM on Sunday, January 8th. A lunch reception will follow. Interment will be at Malta Ridge Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, Don asked that remembrance gifts be sent to the Empire State Aerosciences Museum
250 Rudy Chase Dr. Glenville, NY 12302