Ernest Lee Hamilton

Ernest Lee Hamilton, age 74, of Brooktondale, NY passed away Sunday, August 5, 2018 at his home. Born December 21, 1943 in Ithaca, NY he was the son of the late Francis L. and Laura L. Lyme Hamilton. Ernie had been employed with the Ithaca City School District as the Supervisor of Ground Maintenance prior to his retirement. An avid fisherman and hunter; he loved the outdoors especially “the valley” where he lived. He was a friend to all was willing to do anything for anyone at anytime. He was a life member of the Slaterville Fire Company.
A great husband and father who was loved by all, Ernie is survived by his wife, Cheryl VanPatten Hamilton, his children, Randi Brown (Jason), Charles Hamilton (Skid), Connie Brown, David Hamilton (Joanne), Walter Hamilton, Bryn VanPatten (Liz), Andrew VanPatten (Becky), Robert VanPatten (Danielle), Darrell VanPatten (Alisha), Emily Bartschi; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and “adopted children” throughout the valley; brother, Michael Hamilton; sister, Bridget Hamilton and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by a great friend, Raymond Simmons and Lifelong friend, Clifford Rich. In addition to his parents, Ernie was predeceased by his brother, Charles Gary Hamilton in Vietnam and his first wife, Dawn Simmons Hamilton in 2002.
Graveside services will be held at 1pm on Thursday, August 9, 2018 at Caroline Grove Cemetery, Brooktondale, NY. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Tompkins County SPCA, 1640 Hanshaw Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850.