It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved “Mama.” Gail Hamilton passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026, at Victoria General Hospital.
Gail was predeceased by her husband Don “Papa” Hamilton in 2012; her parents Augusta and Walter Gingell, her stepmother Violet, her sister Bev, and her brother Glen. She is survived by her sons, John (Connie) and Grant (Katie); grandchildren Taylor (Jessica), Matthew (Nicole), Elle (Jordan), Bria, Kendra, and Oliver; her brother Brian Gingell (Bev); sister-in-law Jamie Hamilton; and several nieces and nephews.
Gail was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba and attended Miles Mac High School, where she first met her future husband, Don. After both began their careers with the Toronto-Dominion Bank, their friendship blossomed into love, and they married in Winnipeg in 1962.
Throughout Don’s banking career, the family relocated several times before settling in Victoria in 1972. Gail continued her own career with the Toronto-Dominion Bank until her retirement in 1999. Don and Gail’s greatest joy was their family. They supported John and Grant in all their sporting pursuits, and Gail was their biggest fan.
When the boys were young, summers were filled with epic camping trips throughout the Pacific Northwest. In 1980, “Mama” and “Papa” purchased a campsite at Shawnigan Lake, which quickly became their favourite place to gather with friends, family, and especially their grandchildren. Days were filled with beach time, roasting marshmallows around campfires, hot chocolate, and sing-alongs. Gail’s love for her grandchildren was endless.
Christmas was another special time for Gail and Don. They loved hosting family and friends and were known for their legendary Hamilton Christmas Eve celebrations.
So many were touched by her love. She will be deeply missed.
Friends and family are invited to gather and honour Gail at a private residence at 140 Meadow Park Lane, Victoria, BC, on Saturday, September 12, 2026, between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
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