Since 1924 the Optimist Club of Hamilton has seen many changes.  The amalgamation of the Hamilton, the Hamilton Mountain and the Hamilton South Clubs brought a variety of Members together who had strengths in similar but also different areas of interest.  This has created a strong, dedicated , group of people who support one another through all events, activities and general meetings.

Many Optimist Members have come and gone through a variety of reasons.  This Memorial section is to honour those who have died but are still remembered by those left behind. Of course, many Members have died and there are no memories from Membership.  However, the new and active Members in the Optimist Club of Hamilton, want to honour and thank all of those past Members for their time, effort, commitment and guidance to our community.  There is some information we do have and we would like to share it will all readers.

In Memory Of..

Ray Pomfret -
Ray Pomfret  was a Member of the Optimist Club of Hamilton since its inception in 1924.  His optimism always shone through even during the last months of his life.  Optimist Ray died in 2002 at 78 years of age, and is sadly missed by Optimist Members.  He often made them smile as he always had a joke or two right at his fingertips and was ready to have fun at the drop of the hat.  Ray had health problems during the last years of his life and was unable to attend some of the meetings but when he could he was one Member who was dependable with his loyalty to the club.
Ray was a very active Member and leader during his Presidency and Directorship, with much involvement with youth over the years. During his Optimist involvement he was also an RCAF pilot in World War II.   Ray was one of those gentlemen who truly lived optimism as a way of life.  Optimist Members were proud to have Ray as a Member of the Optimist Club of Hamilton.

Tom Wilson -
Tom Wilson was a Member of the Optimist Club of Hamilton for over twenty five years.  He was one of those gentlemen who truly loved his Optimist Club and was optimistic in every way possible.  Tom was another person who guided the Club and helped the continuance of the Club during lean membership and large memberships.  He was a kind, caring man with a very genteel way about him.Tom also had a sense of humour but it was shown in a different and quiet way.  Tom has been greatly missed by Optimist Members.  He was very active and faithful to the Club for as long as he was capable of doing so.  He was very supportive to new Members and Presidents.  Tom was a very special Optimist.

Harry Marshall -
Optimist Harry was a member of the Optimist Club of Hamilton for over twenty years. He was an active Member with a sense of humour and positive attitude even during his days filled with pain from his illness. He was ready to get involved with any project for the community but he was sure to be found at all events where you would find children. Being a retired school teacher he had a great handle on what our youth needed. Optimist Members miss his involvement as well as him personally. He was a great asset to our Club.