LCol (Ret'd) Jacques Hamel

Sincères condoléances à toute la famille. Jacques, on s’est revus qu’une ou deux fois depuis la graduation du RMC. Je me souviendrai toujours de ton grand intellect, de ta simplicité et de ta générosité. Dors en paix.

My deepest condolences. Jacques was a true trail blazer. Brilliant, driven and visionary, he always had the interests of the troops at heart and never stopped until the mission was complete. I have many fond memories of the sometimes intense, but always honest and clear-headed discussions with Jacques over the years. He is leaving a huge hole in our Branch and Corps and will be missed by the many who had the privilege of working with him over the years. Rest in Peace Soldier.

Chimo mon cher Jacques.

Jacques et moi avons quitté la gare ferroviaire de Ste-Foy ensemble vers Kingston en août 1978 pour entrer au Royal Military College. Nous nous sommes mutuellement soutenus tout au long de nos études. Il était un des 5 élèves de notre petite classe de génie physique franco (promo de 1982), et mon compagnon d’équipe pour la plupart des laboratoires et de notre projet d’intégration de fin de bacc. Jacques aura pris le dernier train sans que je lui envoie la main. Mes excuses et mes condoléances à toute sa famille.

We were absolutely stunned to hear of Jacques' sudden passing. I still can't quite fathom that such an unstoppable force is no longer with us. Jacques was a great friend and colleague that I have known since the 80s, and our paths had crossed many times since. He helped us to move the army out of the "stone age" and brought mapping out of the shadows and into the forefront. Jacques was always fun to be with, and hard to keep up with. His ready smile and easygoing nature belied a great forward looking mind. He was always willing to extend a helping hand anyone who needed it. We will truly miss Jacques - the energizer bunny.
Unfortunately, we are travelling out of the country and will not be able to be present to help celebrate Jacques' time with us, his tremendous contributions to the forces and to mourn his sudden death. Vivian and I would like to extend our most sincere condolences to you in this time of grief.
Jacques will always remain a great friend and ally in my mind.
Bob Testa

Jacques, tu étais bien trop jeune pour nous quitter. Repose en paix mon ami.

À toute la famille, mes plus sincères condoléances. Je me souviendrai toujours de l’énergie, passion et plaisir qui motivait Jacques à développer des capacités pour l’armée canadienne. J’ai beaucoup appris de Jacques en travaillant avec lui et il fut bon conseiller, ingénieur en chef et surtout ami pour moi lorsque j’étais DLCSPM.

Repose en paix mon ami

Your tireless determination and enthusiasm moved the whole institution of the CAF on the strength of your personality. You are missed.

Sleep peacefully, for all is well.
Your flaming torch aloft we bear,
With burning heart an oath we swear
To keep the faith to fight it through
To crush the foe, or sleep with you
In Flanders Field
- from C.B. Galbreath, “An Answer”

I extend my sincere condolences to the Hamel family for the passing of Jacques. His life long contributions are celebrated and cherished, by so many people who have been touched by his big heart, endless devotion, and inspiring intellect. CHIMO

I extend my sincere condolences to the Hamel family for the passing of Jacques. His life long contributions are celebrated and cherished, by so many people who have been touched by his big heart, endless devotion, and inspiring intellect. CHIMO