Richard Lewis Hamlin

WILMINGTON, N.C. – Richard Lewis “Lou” Hamlin 81, son of the late Edmund Hamlin and Regina Powers Hamlin, passed away on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, in Wilmington, N.C., after a brief illness. Lou was born on Jan. 13, 1942, in Portland. He was a 1961 graduate of Portland High School and served in the U.S. Army. He was a small business owner in Falmouth, where he raised his family before moving south. 

He coached his daughters’ little league softball team, winning a district championship. Lou was constantly present at his children’s sporting events in high school and college. He had a wonderful sense of humor, could talk to anyone, and laughed easily. Lou believed that no matter how old, how young, or how much formal education someone had, they could teach you something if you listened. 

In 2008, Lou retired to Wilmington, N.C., where he took full advantage of the outdoor life kayaking, biking, and walking the beach. He faithfully attended the gym three times per week and valued the many friends he made there. He became an avid reader later in life and was proud of the extensive list of titles that he consumed, many of which told the history of his native Maine.

He will be remembered for his generosity, and selfless courage in saving several people from drowning in Mexico, Florida, and North Carolina. He cherished moments with his family and friends in Maine, California, North Carolina, and parts in between. The memories of his antics, his love for family, and his larger-than-life personality will forever rest in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Lou is survived by his children, Michelle Hamlin of Milford, Mass., and Suzanne Hamlin (Mathieu DesJardins), of Redwood City, Calif.; his granddaughter Acadia; his ex-wife Helen (Gagne) Valois with whom he remained close; his brother, Peter Hamlin (Margaret) of Cape Elizabeth; his sister, Lorraine Brinkert (Thomas) of North Yarmouth and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Lou was predeceased by his brothers, Edmund and Raymond Hamlin.

A celebration of life will take place in his beloved Maine in the summer of 2024.