Douglas Kent Hamilton

Douglas Kent Hamilton 79 of Kalamazoo passed away Saturday May 13, 2023 at University of Michigan Medical Center. Doug was born November 22, 1943 in Flint, MI the son of Raymond and Beryl (Sexton) Hamilton. The family moved to Iowa where he went to elementary and high school and then attended the University of Central Missouri, earning a Bachelor of Music Education. Doug was never happier than when playing the piano or singing. He taught music for a while after graduation, and then served in the U.S. Army during the Viet Nam War. He married Patti Hansen in 1973 and helped raise 4 step-children. He worked in the Army’s Special Services which took them to bases in Germany and Colorado. Following their later divorce Doug moved to Nashville where he worked for the State of Tennessee for many years before retiring. He was very active in the arts while living in Nashville, singing in the Symphony Chorus and many operas. He also accompanied singing friends on the piano when they entertained in several senior residences in the city. Doug moved to Kalamazoo in 2017 to be near family, and soon met Al Dykema who became his husband in 2019. He continued to give many piano performances each month in senior residences in this area. He also sang in the choir at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church where he was a member. He is survived by his husband, Al Dykema; sister, Judy Moore; former wife, Patti Hamilton; 3 step-children, Mark Hansen, Kevlyn Stevenson, Michelle Jenkins; nephew & niece, Steve Moore and Betsy (Ron) MGee and their children, Raena and Molly; and longtime friend, Jan Volk, cousins, and many dear friends, Sarah Swart, Laurie Kopta; adopted nieces & nephews, Kinley, Kylah, Karson and Knox. He was preceded in death by his parents and a step-son, Daniel Hansen. A memorial service will be held 11 am Saturday May 20, 2023 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 247 W. Lovell St. Kalamazoo, MI 49007. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke’s Choir. Arrangements by Redmond Funeral Home, Kalamazoo. www.redmondfuneralhomes.net