DANVERS – Mr. Ralph L. Hamel passed away peacefully on June 11th, 2024 at his home surrounded by loving family.

Mr. Hamel was born in Springfield, MA where he attended high school. He graduated from Western New England University, with degrees in Engineering, Risk Management as well as credentials in Occupational Safety and Health.

Ralph was involved in many varied activities throughout the course of his life including family, community, business and volunteer activities. He was an avid fisherman, boater and motorcyclist. He enjoyed these activities with his beloved wife and children in the New England states and Eastern Canada. Ralph was known for his great love for his family, as well as his quick wit and wonderful sense of humor.

Mr. Hamel was employed by several aerospace and defense companies early in his career. He worked extensively in the commercial insurance industry before starting his own company, Logan Leary, LLC in 2006 and maintained several positions in worker safety and health organizations including OSHA, AII, ASSE. Mr. Hamel was a notable instructor and speaker on occupational safety and health. He certified over 3,000 construction and general industry workers in OSHA regulations, spanning the United States.

One of his greatest sources of pride was his work toward the APOLLO 11 moon landing in July, 1969. His name is inscribed on the lunar module that landed on the moon. He also worked with the team planning and designing the life system for the APOLLO 13 rescue, which brought the astronauts safely back to earth.

Ralph was instrumental in the testing and development of the Telstar satellites and orbit orientation rockets.

He was very active in community activities and volunteered for many organizations in the Town of Danvers. He was elected Danvers Selectman; Chairman of the Finance Committee and Town Meeting member. Ralph served at the Maple St. Congregational Church as Chairman for the Board of Trustees. He founded the Association of Danvers Neighborhoods.

Mr. Hamel was born to the late Leonel S. and Dolores F. Hamel (Pigeon) in Springfield, MA. He is survived by his sisters Diane (Adamceiewicz) (Alex) and Lorraine (Bolduc, Sabourin) of Florida. He is predeceased by his brother Jerome R. Hamel (Anne).

He will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Faith J. Hamel (Corey) of 57 years, sons Geoffrey D. of Middleton, NH and Stephen R. (Cindy) of North Andover, MA as well as daughter Jeanne M. (Rosato) (Tony) of Denmark, ME. He also leaves 2 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to attend Ralph's funeral service which will be held graveside at Walnut Grove Cemetery, 30 Sylvan St., Danvers on Tuesday, June 25th at 10 A.M. Assisting the family with the arrangements is O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (Rte. 62) DANVERS. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ralph's memory may be made to a charity of one's choice. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.