William "Bill" Hamm

William “Bill” Hamm, 98, of Columbus, OH, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2024. 

Bill was born on August 27, 1925. He graduated from Ashtabula High School in 1943 and enlisted in the United States Navy that same year. 
 
After his military service, he married the love of his life, Harriet Carlson in 1947, graduated from The Ohio State University in 1950, and embarked on a successful career path. He spent time working in St. Louis at the Army-Navy record search of the dead and wounded. In Ashtabula he worked many jobs including a bailiff, bartender, railroad brakeman, and an insurance salesman until he was hired by GMAC in 1951. During his time with GMAC, he was promoted throughout 6 branches and served as Vice President. He retired in October of 1984 but continued to consult for several automotive dealerships across Ohio.

He and Harriet enjoyed traveling, from Alaskan cruises to camping in the Outer Banks with family. He was a lifelong outdoorsman who loved to fish, hunt, and bird watch. He enjoyed gardening and farming, including owning two Christmas tree farms after retirement. Likely his favorite place was the family cabin on an island north of Ontario, Canada. Another passion was flying (or, landing, as he would say). He obtained his pilot’s license when he was 60 and flew as a hobby until he was 95. He often took quick flights for a piece of pie to local airports, accompanied by his trusty 4-legged co-pilot, Bam. He enjoyed the companionship of dogs during his lifetime.

Volunteering was an important aspect of his life, which included the Boy Scouts, Red Cross, COFA, Moose Lodge, and The American Legion. He was also privileged to be invited to join an Honor Flight in 2013. 

Bill was an avid reader, a snappy dancer, a fan of tennis, a Bingo caller at the Moose Lodge, and, as anyone who knew him would say, one heck of a card player. 

Bill is survived by his children Terry Hamm, Betsy (Steve) Bass, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bill is preceded in death by his wife, Harriet, two sons and a daughter.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life memorial on Sunday, May 19, 2024, from 4-6p at the American Legion, Post 239, 700 Morning St., Worthington, OH 43085. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of his love for Harriet.