Rachel Hamel, 92, passed away peacefully on May 9th at Bowman Place, Bedford after a period of declining health. A lifelong resident of Manchester, Rachel most recently lived in Bedford.

She was predeceased by her husband of 67 years, Dr. George Hamel, and is survived by 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 six great-grandchildren. A seventh was born a few days after her passing. Rachel is also survived by her sister, Suzanne as well as many nieces and nephews. She was also predeceased by her parents, Louis and Yvette Fournier as well as sister, Louise and brothers Maurice and Phil.

Born in Lewiston, Maine Rachel grew up and attended local schools in the town of Chisholm, Maine. After high school graduation, she moved to Manchester and worked for many years at the New Hampshire Fire and Insurance company in administration.

Her most important role, however, was that of mother and grandmother. Rachel was a tireless and fearless advocate for her children, ever-present at countless school events, offering unwavering support and encouragement. She took particular pride in her grandchildren, whom she adored deeply and spoke of often. In return, they shared with her immense love and gratitude for the countless ways she enriched their lives.

Among Rachel’s most treasured possessions was her electronic photo frame, filled with an ever-changing collection of family photographs. She spent countless joyful hours watching those memories unfold and proudly sharing them with others. Her love only grew as she welcomed her great-grandchildren, embracing each new generation with the same boundless enthusiasm and affection.

Rachel also treasured the time she spent with the extended Fournier and Hamel families. For many years, she joyfully opened her home to host gatherings and celebrations, creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds of family through her generosity, hospitality, and love.

In her later years, Rachel joined George’s medical practice as a receptionist, where she extended her warmth, kindness, and compassion to the many patients who walked through the door.

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, June 5 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 14 Elm Street, Manchester. A luncheon hosted by the family will follow at the Venues at the Factory, 252 Willow St in Manchester. Extended family and friends are welcome. Burial will be private.

The family would like to thank the kind staff at Bowman Place and Amedysis Hospice for their compassionate care during Rachel’s later years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rachel’s memory to Bowman Place, 24 Old Bedford Rd, Bedford NH 03110.