HAMILTON, Don Rev. 1914-1996

HAMILTON, HESLA

Posted By: Karen L. Robertson (email)
Date: 4/15/2010 at 14:20:42

#1 OF 2 ITEMS:

Rev. Don Hamilton, was not the son of a minister as his predecessors had been so his home and educational background until he went to the Seminary, was quite similar to that of his parishioners. He attended school in New York City, New York; Omaha, Nebraska; Omaha Municipal University and graduating in 1948 from Luther Theological Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota.

He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

Before coming to St. Ansgar, Rev. Hamilton served Central Lutheran Church, Dallas, Texas from 1948-1957. In May 1957 he came to serve First Lutheran Congregation until 1963. Along with the regular duties of a pastor it was his responsibility of guiding the congregation to a compromise plan for the new Parish Center which was completed and dedicated in November 1960. Also during his ministry here the merger of several synods created the new American Lutheran Church (ALC). It was his task to convert the congregation to the use of a new hymnal and an entirely new liturgy; this required much patience and understanding on his part as he guided it through its difficult period of adjustment.

From 1963-1966 he served at Okoboji Lutheran Bible Camp, Spirit Lake, Iowa; 1966-1967 North Branch, South Branch, Petersburg Parish, (3 point) rural Albion, Nebraska. In 1967 he moved to Sacred Heart, Minnesota where he served Hawk Creek Lutheran Church and Ebenezer Lutheran Church.

He married Arlene Marcella Hesla and they were parents of six children: Kathleen, Robin, Naomi, Brian, Patrice and Michael.

The duties of caring for the parsonage family did not keep Mrs. Hamilton from starting many fine children's choirs. She presented many fine programs which permitted the congregation to enjoy the musical talent within the church. It was a real privilege for a child to be in one of her choirs. "She had a way with them."

Rev. Hamilton died March 6, 1996 and is buried in the Lebanon Cemetery in New London, Minnesota.

Mrs. Hamilton died July 8, 1997.

[First Lutheran Anniversary Booklet]

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PHOTO OF REV. HAMILTON

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