Mary Eileen Hamel

Mary Eileen Hamel (Abbott), born October 9, 1942, to Clarence and Fern Abbott (Albright), passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. A lifelong resident of Iowa, Mary graduated from Johnston High School and spent her life dedicated to her family, community, and work.

Mary held a variety of jobs throughout her life and found great joy in roles that allowed her to care for and connect with others. Among her favorite positions were her time working in security — including at Target, the Courthouse, and ADM — and her involvement in the Adopt-a-Grandparent program at a local daycare. She also worked at Central Life Insurance, where she eventually retired.

Mary was a devoted mother to her two children, Christine (David) Edwards and Ed (Misty) Hamel. She was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren: Tyler (Alyssa) Hamel, Cheyenne (Andrew) Ekberg, Calvin Hamel, Dakota Hamel, Mason (Julie) Hamel, Caleb Edwards, and Noah Edwards. Her love extended to her great-grandchildren — three currently, with one more on the way — as well as to several adopted grandchildren and great-grandchildren who held a special place in her heart.
Mary is preceded in death by her parents, her daughter, one grandson, and numerous other beloved family members. Her strength, compassion, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

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