Fred Hamilton

Fred Hamilton, from Grants Pass, Oregon, age 79, passed away on August 7, 2008, in his home with his loving wife Kay Lee by his side. Also present during his final days were his children Joni, Jim and wife Misty, his grandchildren Mylisa, Tiffany, Kyle, Amanda and great granddaughter Meagan.

Fred led a full life and was known as a hard worker and a 'Jack-of-all-Trades'. Fred served as a Marine in World War II and was honorably discharged after 4 years of service to his Country. Fred met the love of his life Kay Lee and married soon after. They had three children, Joni Hays of Lewiston ID, Brenda Lester of Riverside, Ca, and Jim Hamilton of Grants Pass. Fred is also survived by his son Gary Hamilton of Modesto, Ca, Cynthia Mitchell of Port O''Connor, Tx, and Gayelynn Oscarson of Aldtown, ID.

Fred had a love for cars and built sprint cars for driver such as Johnny Rutherford, Pete Rose, and worked in the pits for A.J. Foyt. He was well known around Ascot Raceway in Gardena, Ca as a good mechanic and at setting up a successful race car.

Fred was the driving force for the local American Legion Honor Guard. He worked tirelessly to obtain equipment, uniforms, and a van for the team. He was honored by KTVL for his efforts and his involvement in making sure every veteran was honored with a proper burial. Fred also volunteered as a driver for the DAV van in White City.

Fred spent 17 years living in Grants Pass and loved the valley. He enjoyed NASCAR and donating his hard earned money to Seven Feathers Casino and Fitzgerald''s in Reno.

He is survived by his brothers Mark and Jack, both of Grants Pass, Sister Joanne of Oroville, Ca. and 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Fred is preceded in death by his father Fred, his mother Pearl, his brothers Wayne, Charlie and Andy, and his sisters Marie and Tessie.

A memorial service of Freds life will be held at the All Sports Park, Harry and David Pavilion, on Wednesday August 13th, 2008 at 10:00 a.m.