Richard Craig Hamilton

Published: Friday, June 12, 2026 at 8:30 pm

Richard Craig Hamilton, known affectionately as "Dick" and "Big Man" by his grandchildren, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, at the age of 92. A lifelong enthusiast of outdoor activities and community service, Hamilton leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and dedication.

Born and raised in Montclair, New Jersey, Hamilton's early life was marked by service in the U.S. Navy. Following his military duty, he pursued higher education at the University of Colorado at Boulder, where his passion for skiing was ignited. This enthusiasm for the sport would remain a significant part of his life for decades.

After completing his studies, Hamilton established a successful career in real estate development with The Hartford, dedicating 25 years to the company. In 1979, he married Marian, commencing a partnership that would last over four decades. Upon his retirement in 1992, the couple settled in Connecticut, later building a home in Wolfeboro. This move allowed them to foster strong community ties and remain close to a cherished lakefront cottage in Moultonborough, which became a beloved summer gathering place for generations of family.

Hamilton's love for skiing continued well into his seventies. He actively volunteered with ski patrols at Ragged Mountain and Waterville Valley, and spent numerous days on the slopes with family and friends at various New Hampshire ski areas. He successfully passed on his appreciation for skiing and the state to his children and grandchildren.

However, it was the lake that held a special place in Hamilton's heart. Drawing from his own childhood experiences at the same cottage, he shared his love for the water with neighbors, children, and grandchildren, creating enduring memories.

Beyond his personal passions, Hamilton was deeply committed to service. He was a Rotarian for over fifty years, maintaining perfect attendance, and contributed his time to numerous community organizations, including the Red Cross and Salvation Army. He was also a founding member of the Langdon Cove Association. In 2015, he and Marian moved to Keene to be closer to family, where Hamilton quickly became involved with the Elm City Rotary Club of Keene.

Hamilton will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to helping others, his genuine warmth, and his ability to make everyone feel welcome and loved. He is survived by his wife, Marian, his daughter Leigh, his son Douglas, his stepdaughters Jennifer, Melissa, and Christine, and numerous grandchildren and other family members. He was predeceased by his son Mathew and sister Mardie.

A service to celebrate Hamilton's life will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Covenant Living of Keene. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that charitable donations be made to the Elm City Rotary Club of Keene.

BNN's Perspective: Richard Craig Hamilton's life story exemplifies a dedication to both personal passions and community well-being. His enduring commitment to skiing, family, and extensive volunteer work, particularly his long-standing involvement with Rotary, highlights a life rich in purpose and connection. His ability to foster a sense of belonging and warmth, as noted by his welcoming nature and the fond memories he created, serves as a testament to a life well-lived and a significant loss to those who knew him.

Tags: Richard Craig Hamilton, Dick Hamilton, Marian Hamilton, skiing, real estate development, community service, Rotary, lakefront cottage, New Hampshire, family, generosity, volunteer, Elm City Rotary Club

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