On October 13, 2024, James Matthew Hammel passed away in Walnut Creek, California after a hard fought battle with cancer.

Jim was born James Matthew Hammel to James and Barbara Hammel in Sacramento, California on September 29, 1955. He was the third of what would eventually be four brothers. Being in a military family, Jim was fortunate in life to have lived and traveled across the United States and beyond. He has lived in Texas, Virginia, California, Hawaii and even Tripoli, Libya. Jim graduated from Alhambra High School in Martinez, California.  In 1992, Jim had a benign tumor removed from his brain. After a full recovery Jim enjoyed many years with family and friends.

Anyone describing Jim would no doubt describe him as helpful, gracious, loving, sincere and kind. Even in the last weeks of his life, Jim would still be more concerned with what the family was up to and if all were doing well. He started and ended all visits with a handshake and made sure you would "say hi" to all. He had an exceptional memory for historical facts and dates and loved listening to music, mostly great songs from the 60's. He will always be missed, loved and remembered by all his family. He is survived by three brothers, and many nieces and nephews .