BRUNSWICK — Paul R. Hamel,“Santa,” 67, of Harpswell died Sunday, April 9, at Mid Coast Hospital.

He was born in Lewiston, July 8, 1949, the son of Roland and Pauline Lagasse Hamel and graduated from Edward Little High School in Auburn. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1967 to 1971.

He spent most of his life working for AC Electric in the electric motor repair industry in both the Auburn and Bangor shops. He loved the New England Patriots, crossword puzzles, fishing and traveling. He particularly loved traveling during the Christmas season, where he delighted in being the “Santa” or Papa Noel for the children and travelers alike. His grandchildren referred to him as Santa, also.

He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Elizabeth “Betty” Wallace Hamel; a daughter, Lee Tyler, and her companion, Kris Tokarz of Gilmanton Iron Works, N.H.; three sisters, Rolande Cunningham of Mechanic Falls, Sandy Paradie of Litchfield and Debra Hamel of Mechanic Falls; a brother, Richard Hamel of Brookline, Mass.; and two grandchildren, Eric Simmons of Bristol, Conn., and Lynsey Tyler of Portsmouth, N.H. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

We would like to sincerely thank all of the nursing staff, respiratory staff and physicians in the ICU at Mid Coast Hospital for the incredible support and care that he and the family were given.

Condolences to the family may be expressed and a tribute to his life viewed at www.brackettfuneralhome.com.

Paul R. Hamel

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