Rex Murray Hammell

Rex Murray Hammell passed away after a short illness in the evening of Sunday, November 27, 2016. Rex is predeceased by his parents, Janet Mabel Hammell (nee Ruddy) and Gordon Randall Hammell. He is survived and greatly missed by his wife, Laura, his brothers Randy (Lois) and Derek, his sister Nora (Nathalie), his foster sister Wennie Ho (Wing), and his brother-in-law, Kelly Whitney. At family gatherings Rex's humour and gentle way made him a favourite with his nieces and nephews, Andrea, Eric, Jacob, Megan, Bonita, Jackie and Brooke. Born in Sudbury, Ontario, he was the baby of the family. He spent his childhood in Sudbury and Montreal, moving to Calgary as a teenager. He was an unruly teenager in some ways, taking advantage of his status as "the baby." He could wind Mum and Dad around his little finger, even persuading them that he should have a motorbike.
Rex met Laura Evelyn Whitney, the love of his life, at Mount Royal College in Calgary, in September 1985. They married on Sept 12, 1987 in Calgary and twenty year later, renewed their vows on the autumn equinox of 2007, on Island View Beach, Vancouver Island, at sunrise.
Their early years were spent moving around BC for jobs and then the couple settled in the Victoria region in 1991 where they spent the next 25 years, finding careers in caregiving for people with developmental delays. Rex had an amazing talent for caring for people with behavioural challenges. For the last 18 years, Rex and Laura shared their home and cared for Chris, who became like a son to them. In their care, Chris blossomed far beyond expectations, and became a member of a large extended family.
Rex and Laura both loved Vancouver Island. They never stopped exploring the parks, beaches and trails, often taking long dog walks and going for picnics.
Anyone wishing to honour Rex's memory is asked to make a donation to their local women's shelter, as Rex felt strongly about supporting, educating and protecting women. A private gathering will be held on Saturday, December 3. You are invited to light a candle that afternoon, as you remember Rex.

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