Merton Alvin Hambly
1933 – 2025
The family of Merton Alvin Hambly is saddened, but with a measure of relief, to announce that “Mert” died peacefully in his 92nd year, a week after suffering a debilitating stroke.
Merton was born July 4th, 1933 in Wiarton, Ontario to Alvin and Marie Hambly. His parents moved to Dundas when he was a young boy where he attended school and played goalie for hockey and lacrosse teams.
Mert met the love of his life, Evelyn, on a blind date in Grimsby. Love blossomed as they sped off in his Morris Minor toward what turned out to be a 73 year long journey.
Mert joined his father at Hambly Construction, building custom family homes and buildings in the Dundas area. He then followed his dream and started his own fibreglass manufacturing business creating unique motor homes and various truck parts. He was a creative wood craftsman constructing grandmother clocks, furniture, and artistic pieces for special people in his life.
Mert was always willing to help and if he saw something needed doing, he got it done. He filled many roles at St. Paul’s United Church, was a charter member and multi-year president of the Greensville Optimist Club, and established the Dundas Modular Railway Club. He found time to host Hobbyfest, the church Breakfast Club, and Robbie Burns night among his many, many other activities. In recent years, Mert looked forward to his weekly coffee chats with his Optimist and Train Club friends. He was a Formula One car racing enthusiast. There wasn’t much he didn’t know about it, from building the cars to racing strategy.
Merton is survived by his wife, Evelyn, children Cindy (Bill) and Craig (Jennifer), grandchildren Victoria (Stephen), Spencer, Derek (Haley), Kent (Emma), and Riley (Kenna), great-grandchildren Henry and Charlotte. He is pre-deceased by his sister, Dorothy Marie Allan (Robert).
Mert’s family wish to express their sincere appreciation to the caring and empathetic health care teams at Hamilton General and St. Peter’s Palliative Care Hospitals.
A funeral service will be held at St. Paul’s United Church in Dundas on Friday, April 11th, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the church parlour.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity close to your heart.
My deepest condolences to your family. It was my pleasure taking care of “Mert” in his time of need. Even though it was a short time your family remains in my thoughts through this difficult time.
Dear Evelyn,
So sorry to learn that Mert has died.
I’m thinking of you and, of course, the close friendship you two had with my Mum and Dad.
My mother held you both in highest regard, and it was easy to see why: two people with intelligence, energy, inner joy and determination who show up for the common good. I know she was always happy in your presence.
Lyne joins me in sending our condolences to you and your family and to everyone who loved Mert.
Ian
Dear Evelyn and family.
Wendy and I are so sorry to hear of Mert’s passing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Love.
Patsy and Wendy Orr