John L Hamilton

John L. Hamilton

John L. Hamilton, 96, passed away Friday (June 13, 2008) at his Newton residence.

He was born Aug. 31, 1911, in rural Newton to Ira and Emma (Longenecker) Hamilton. They preceded him in death.

On Dec. 24, 1936, he married Beulah M. Stahly in Sylvia. She survives of the home.

He attended Shadyside school and Zimmerdale grade school, both in Harvey County. John farmed and raised livestock alongside his wife until his retirement. He was well known for the thousands of turkeys he raised through the years.

John was an active member of First Church of the Nazarene in Newton, where he served as a Sunday school teacher and church board member for many years. John had a special interest in foreign missions. He and his wife supported many missionaries through the years.

John enjoyed his time on the farm and greatly looked forward to spending time with his many friends and loving family.

Other survivors include sons, Jim and Marge Hamilton and Kent and Janice Hamilton, all of Newton; daughter, Judy and Gary Everett of Sterling, Colo.; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; brother, Lester Hamilton of Seattle, Wash.; and several nieces and nephews.

He also was preceded in death by sisters, Esther McKee, Ruby Hamilton and Mary Ritter; brother, Irvin Hamilton; and grandson, Gary Everett Jr.

Book signing will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday at Petersen Funeral Home in Newton.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at First Church of the Nazarene, with the Rev. Charles West of the church officiating.

A private family burial will be at Eastlawn Cemetery in Zimmerdale.

Memorial contributions may be made to World Gospel Missions in care of the funeral home.