Lawrence E. Hamilton, 81, died peacefully at the age of 81 on the morning of Jan. 1, 2025, with his youngest daughter, Laurie by his side at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.
A celebration of his life, as well as his wife’s will be held in Alaska later. Litchfield Family Funeral Service in Litchfield is in charge of arrangements.
Affectionately known as “Larry”, “Ham” or “Pard”, Mr. Hamilton was born on Dec. 18, 1943, in St. Louis, MO. He led a life filled with love, laughter and adventure. After bravely serving his country as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, he returned home to marry the love of his life, Judith “Dianne” (Collishaw) on March 25, 1967, in Vancouver, BC Canada, and she preceded him in death in October of 2022. Their extraordinary journey together began in Hawaii and took them across the country and beyond, ultimately landing in Alaska, a place that captured both of their hearts.
His career was as dynamic as his personality. After leaving the military in 1971, he tried his hand at various ventures but found his stride as a finance and insurance manager at a Ford dealership in Anchorage, AK. Known for his quick wit and warm demeanor, he never met a stranger. When retirement came, the couple embraced the joy of travel, splitting their time between Alaska, Illinois and Arizona. They cherished their life in Alaska, spending summers at their cozy cabin in Soldotna (Funny River), where they shared their love for fishing, golfing and creating lifelong memories with friends and family around the campfire.
Following his wife’s passing, Mr. Hamilton found comfort and a new sense of belonging with the warm and welcoming community at Litchfield Southern Baptist Church, where his faith deepened and his heart found peace. He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter.
He is survived by his daughters, Dawn McQay and Laurie Stoner and cherished granddaughter, Macy, all of Alaska; brother, Paul Plopper of Surprise, AZ and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Hamilton was preceded in death by his mother and siblings, Gregory Plopper and Christine (Plopper) Stephens.
Memorials may be made to Litchfield Southern Baptist Church.
Condolences may be left at www.litchfieldffs.com.
