Donald Charles Hamm, 79, of Charleston, passed away on February 21^st, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends.  Don was born on July 3, 1945, in Beaumont, Texas. He attended South Park High School where he was a letterman in both track and basketball.  After graduation he attended Lamar University, earning a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering.  Don was especially proud of graduating at the top of his engineering class, receiving Top of Class honors from the University.

A few years later, in 1969, he proudly graduated with a master’s degree from Arizona State University.  Later that year Don began his career with Union Carbide, working at the Texas City plant.  In 1976, he relocated with his family to Charleston, where he worked for Carbide for the next 20 years.  Don continued a successful engineering career by working with several businesses and special projects, specifically with NGI and MATRIC.

Faith was the foundation of Don’s life, and he made it the centerpiece of his family’s home.  After moving to Charleston, he became a member of Boyd Memorial Christian Church and later played a key role in establishing what is today United Disciples of Christ Church. His church family meant the world to him, and he took great pride in his service, teaching Sunday school for over 40 years and guiding others in their faith journey.

Don never met someone that he would not call a friend. A handshake, a smile, a story, or a “fun fact” about the world, left all who met him better for it.  Friends often laughed about family stories of his gruff and stern nature because all they ever knew was his generosity, compassion, and gentle nature, often tearing up when surrounded by the people he loved.

A devoted husband and father, Don was deeply committed to his children and their activities. He spent countless hours coaching baseball, soccer, basketball, and softball teams, always leading with encouragement and enthusiasm. His passion for the game extended beyond coaching, and he found true joy in umpiring baseball and softball games in various leagues throughout the valley.

In retirement, Don remained active in his community. He took great pride in working with Union Carbide’s Old Timers Club, volunteering to distribute food at the Covenant House, and, in what he considered his dream job, delivering fancy cars while happily talking people’s ears off with one of his great stories.

Don will be remembered for his strong faith in Christ, his unwavering love for his family, and his endless kindness that left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Curley and Emma Hamm, his son Jeffrey Hamm, and his brother Roy Lee Hamm. Don is survived by his loving wife and companion of more than 57 years, Ann Hamm, his children, Rebecca Watson (Jason), Thomas Hamm (Leslie), daughter-in-law Kristine West, his sister Patricia Carpenter (Jim), brother Hoyt Hamm, and his wonderful grandchildren, Ella Watson, Matt Watson, Jack Watson, Sam Hamm, and Hoath Hamm.  Along with dozens of nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters-in-law, Don had a family who cared for him and loved him deeply.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Don’s life and legacy on Saturday, March 29^th at United Disciples of Christ Church.  Visitation will begin at 4:00 and the celebration of life will begin at 5:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Don’s church at United Disciples of Christ Church, 100 United Disciples Dr., South Charleston WV, 25309.

Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Arrangements are in care of Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston.