Richard C. Hamilton, 82 years old, passed away at 12:56 p.m. on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at his home.  Mr. Hamilton was born on October 18, 1938 in Frankfort, IN to the late Ernest and Dorothy (Peter) Newhart.  As a small child, his late Aunt Ruth (Newhard) and Uncle James E. “J.E.” Hamilton raised him. He lived in Michigantown, IN for some time and even after moving back to our area, he enjoyed spending time in Michigantown for some weekends and holidays.  On March 17, 1957 in South Bend on St. Patrick’s Day, Richard married the love of his life, Betty J. Whitten who preceded in death on August 8, 2014. Richard’s brother, Robert (Betty) Newhart and David Newhart also preceded him in death.

Mr. Hamilton is survived by his four children, Rick Hamilton of South Bend, Ronald (Tammy) Hamilton of North Liberty, Randi (Carl “Bo”) Lawson of Avon Park, FL, and Ryan Hamilton of North Liberty; two daughters-in-law, Roxanne Hamilton of South Bend and Dana Hamilton of North Liberty; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; his twin brother, Raymond (Georgia) Hamilton of Chattanooga, TN; and sister-in-law, Sandra Newhart of South Bend. 

Richard was the owner, operator and President of Hamilton Body Shop and Towing, retiring in 2014. This business was started by the Hamilton family in 1927.  He was a member of Indiana Towing Association, Kustom’s Car Club, St. Joseph Lodge #45, F & AM, Orak Shrine of Michigan City, and North Liberty United Methodist Church.  He was educated at Central High School and Riley High School.  Richard loved his big, beautiful, blue tow trucks, family, friends, mowing grass on his Wheel Horse tractors, great neighbors, friends, Dee Dee, and especially his wife, Betty.  He enjoyed 4th of July with the tow trucks in the North Liberty parade, bonfires, all of his guns, the Bowling Alley, and the great times at the Dew Drop Inn.  His favorite holiday was Christmas and there was always an extra gift under the tree for those who stopped by to visit. 

Richard always carried a camera and loved taking photos.  He gave his life to his family and is resting in Heaven with the love of his life.  His grandson, Matthew, helped take care of him after the passing Betty.  His daughter, Randi, came from Florida every chance she could.  He loved Christmas with the Jaworskis, gathering with the neighbors, the Weiss, Snyder, and Sheaks families as well as John Dooms; shop Christmas parties and wrecker rodeos.  Richard would always take his daughter, Randi, on Christmas Eve shopping trips.  He loved his Beechnut tobacco and beer.  He will be missed by all of his family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at the Palmer Funeral Home, within the Palmer Community Complex, 601 N. Michigan St., Lakeville.  Pastor Tim Davis will officiate.  Graveside services and burial will follow at Westlawn Cemetery, North Liberty.  Friends may visit after 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday until service time at the funeral home. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Richard C. Hamilton may be donated to Palmer Funeral Home, 3718 S. Michigan Street, South Bend, IN  46614.  Online condolences may be offered to the Hamilton family at www.palmerfuneralhome

10/22/2021 JFC