Smiley Hamilton

“Don never met a stranger, just a friend he didn’t know yet” Donald Gordon (Smiley) Hamilton of Brussels, Ontario passed away peacefully at his home with his family around him at the age of 75. Don was born February 20, 1945, forever sharing his birthday with his fraternal twin brother, Ron. Don is survived by his loving wife, Myke (Griffith) who he absolutely adored, and was blessed with a large blended family of children and grandchildren. Father of Lisa & Bill (D’Arcey), Steven & Jackie Hamilton, Kevin Hamilton, Laura Griffith, and Jason & Nienke Griffith. Grampa Don to Jess, Jaime, Nic, Ben, Tyson, Justin, Kaylee, Austin, Devon, Travis, Emily Justin and Daniel. Brother of Ron & Velma Hamilton, Bruce & Anna Hamilton. Brother-in-law of Jack and Deb Bontje, Bill & Donna Bontje, Marty & Debbie Bontje, and Edward Bontje. Missed by many nieces and nephews in both families. Fondly remembered by numerous friends, customers, and fellow drivers. If you knew Dad, you knew why his many friends called him “Smiley”, a kind soul with a silly sense of humour – always trying to get others see the positive side of life. He loved people and hearing their stories, meeting many through his travels. Spending most of his life on the road behind the wheel of a truck, big or small, and seeing the country which brought him so much joy. Sharing a great many of these miles with Myke completed his life. “If you find a job that you love, you’ll never work a day in your life” is a quote well-suited for Dad. He loved all animals, big or small, furry or feathered, well, except for the squirrels who invaded the bird feeders, but even those got relocated to a happier home. And telling Myke, “Leave the spiders alone in the bathroom, they’ll find their way” just shows a small part of the kindness in his big heart. We’ll forever remember those big bear hugs, whisker rubs, that giggle and those darn suspenders. Dad seemed to have his own dictionary, how do you take a life-lesson speech seriously when he’s putting two goofy words together and mixing it in with a little trucker’s lingo? Dad loved his family and his friends dearly. But most of all, he loved his wife, who will hold him in her heart forever. Thank you to all who visited and called, to each and every home nurse and PSW. To Terry most of all – the kindness you’ve shown our husband and father will not be forgotten. You have a huge heart, your compassion and caring is amazing. A private, family service will take place. In lieu of flowers and as expressions of sympathy donations to One Care would greatly appreciated. Cards of sympathy may be sent to Box 472, Brussels NoG 1H0. Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca “Smiley will catch you on the flip-side”