Dr. George R. Hamel

George Hamel, 91, passed away peacefully on August 6th at Elliot Hospital in Manchester after a period of declining health. A lifelong resident of Manchester, George most recently lived in Bedford.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Rachel (Fournier) Hamel, and their six children: Ken (Donna) of Boston, MA, Keith (Dianne) of Gloucester, MA, Elaine, Brian (Judy) of San Jose, CA; Marc of Hudson, and Steve (Jill) of Concord. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren—Jenna, Chad, Ann Marie, Andrea, Susanna, Chase, Ava, and Ella—and five great-grandchildren. George is also survived by his sisters, Connie and Yvette, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Roch and Fredaline Hamel, and his sister, Jacqueline.

Born in Manchester, George attended local schools and played football for West High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the Navy and later pursued his education at the Palmer School of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. A dedicated chiropractor, he ran his practice for over 60 years, serving countless patients in the community and truly embracing his calling to help others. Remarkably, he continued to see patients well into his 80s.

An avid sports enthusiast, George enjoyed skiing, golf, tennis, sailing and riding motorbikes on trails outside the city. He passed his love of sports on to his children, many of whom continue to share those interests. A devoted family man, he treasured time with loved ones—whether exploring New England with his wife and kids or bonding with the extended Hamel and Fournier families. His warm personality and deep community roots meant he often ran into familiar faces, even far from home.

Phaneuf Funeral Home is handling arrangements. A gathering will begin at 10 a.m. followed by a funeral Mass at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 15 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 14 Elm Street, Manchester. A luncheon hosted by the family will follow at the Puritan Backroom at 245 Hooksett Rd Manchester. Extended family and friends are welcome. Burial will be private.

The family would like to thank the kind staff at Bowman Place and Elliot Hospital for their compassionate care during George’s later years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in George’s memory to Blessed Sacrament Food Panty on 14 Elm St, Manchester NH 03103.