Clarence Gordon (Butch) Hammel

Clarence Gordon (Butch) Hammel, 78, of Saguache, Colo., passed away on May 23, 2021, at his home, surrounded by family. Butch was born on Dec. 16, 1942, in Monte Vista, Colo., to Clarence B. and Nellie Hammel.

Butch was married to Leslie Irene Weaver on Jan. 17, 1968. They had four children, Mark, Michele, Michael and Matthew. Butch and Leslie were married for 53 years.

Butch joined the Navy on Jan. 13, 1960, and was honorably discharged on Jan. 12, 1966. Upon his return, he started his own business, Hammel Construction, Inc. He was a heavy construction operator and built timber sale roads. He also built hiking trails, river walks, and did street improvements. He could fix almost everything and above all, he was a hard worker.

Butch loved animals and in his later years his dogs, cats and chickens brought him a lot of joy.

Butch will be deeply missed by his friends, family and all who knew him.

Butch was proceeded in death by his parents, Clarence and Nellie Hammel, his sister Cheryl Hammel, his grandson, Cody Hammel and his daughter-in-law, Shayla Hammel.

Butch is survived by his wife, Leslie; children Mark (Charlene) Hammel, Michele Hammel, Michael (Lisa) Hammel, and Matthew Hammel; brother Rodney (Lynn) Hammel; sister Sharon Lockett Hammel; grandchildren Nicolas, Austyn, Micaela, Jace, Danielle, Sydney, Ripper, Paige, Zane,

Gia and Cruz; great-grandchildren Brylee, Lydia, Liam, Lochlyn, and Kamden; and multiple nephews, nieces and cousins.

There will be a rosary at 7 p.m. at the St. Francis Jerome Church in Center on June 25, 2021.

Funeral arrangements will be held at St. Francis Jerome Church on June 26, 2021, at 10 a.m.

Interment will be at the Hillside Cemetery in Saguache following the service. Food will be provided at the Oasis Restaurant at 1 p.m.