Bill Hamel, born Oct. 18, 1936, passed away Oct. 5, 2010.

Born in Plattsburgh, New York, he moved to Orcas Island with his wife in 1985. Bill had many interests, including sailing, developing properties, making wine and football. He was a member of the Orcas Sportsman’s Club and the Boeing Employees Wine and Beer Club.

He is survived by his wife, Lillian Hamel; a sister, Elizabeth (Serge) Triau of Derwood, Md.; three daughters, Elizabeth Harrison of Anacortes, MaryLynn (Mike) Behrens of Payson, Ariz., and Tracy Uptain of Orcas Island; one son, Bill Hamel, of Bellingham and Orcas Island; 11 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Bill’s life is being planned for a later date.

Submitted by Bill Hamel’s family.