Michael Dennis Hamilton

Michael Dennis Hamilton, 75, of Gnadenhutten, passed away peacefully Sunday, July 8, 2012 in his home following a period of declining health.

Born March 1, 1937 in Warwick Township, he was the son of the late Donald Eugene and Myrtle Katherine (Patterson) Hamilton.

After graduating from Gnadenhutten High School in 1955 and completing his formal education at Muskingum College, he joined the United States Army in 1960 where he honorably served his country.

While he was an active serviceman in Germany, Michael met his lifelong companion and wife, the former Ingeborg Anita Ruth Griesel. They were married on August 6, 1966. Together, they enjoyed traveling and caring for their dogs.

Then, he joined the educational professionals at Indian Valley where he educated and inspired students as a teacher for 34 years.

Other organizations Michael was involved with include the Tuscarawas County Kennel Club, AATG, and the Midvale Lions for more than 40 years. He served on the Board of Directors for the Tuscarawas School Credit Union, holding the president’s position for more than 20 years. Also, Michael was affiliated with the Tuscarawas County Board of Elections from 1978 through the present.

Michael’s great-grandfather started the Gnadenhutten United Methodist Church, where he worshipped and served throughout his lifetime.

Michael will be deeply missed by Ingeborg; his brother, Gregory (Kathy) Hamilton of Gnadenhutten; 5 nieces; 4 great-nieces; and 2 great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his brother, Stephen Hamilton.

Visitation will be held in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia on Wednesday, July 11, 2012 from 4 to 7 p.m. A memorial service celebrating Michael’s life will be held in the Gnadenhutten United Methodist Church on Thursday beginning at 10:30 a.m. Inurnment will follow in Ridgecrest Memory Gardens at Dover.

Friends are invited back to the church where Michael’s church family will host a reception following the committal service.

Memorial contributions in Michael’s memory may be directed to Gnadenhutten Methodist Church, 220 N. Walnut St., PO Box 37, Gnadenhutten, OH, 44629.