John H. Hamilton

John Hamilton (86) of Manitowoc has left us on April 6th, 2026. He was a beloved husband, father, grandpa, uncle and most of all a friend.

He was one of twelve to be born to the late James and Tennessee (Qualls) Hamilton. He was born on March 3, 1940 in Charleston, Missouri.

He worked and traveled around the U.S. from picking oranges in Florida when he was younger to retiring from Cudahy Tannery in Wisconsin as a forklift driver.

He met Shelly (Canon) Hamilton in early 1993 and fell in love with her and the four children. They soon moved to Sheboygan and began their life together. His love was shown to this new family of 6 with lots of quality time together; fishing, visits to the lake, wrestling on Monday nights, gardening and barbecues in the backyard.

John also was known as Hammer was a great man! He always cared about the next person before himself. He enjoyed spending his time with his family, friends, and his favorite dog Duke. You could always catch him watching wrestling, the Packers, or Family Feud. One thing he loved more then that is being a grandpa. He loved each and everyone of his grandchildren, they brought a new light of joy into his life.

John is outlived by his wife Shelly Hamilton, children Ricky (Michelle) Canon, James (Cassondra) Canon, Jamie (Jamie) Canon and Jessica (Mark) Canon. His 17 beautiful grandchildren, his sisters Martha, Rose, BirthaMay, and RuthaMay. His brother Robert, his close nephews Terry Byrd and Steve Hamilton and many more Family and Friends.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hamilton Homes in Two Rivers for the care and service John (Hammer) received.

A private family service will be held at Ballhorn Chapels Funeral and Cremation Care Center.