Perris Arthur Hamilton

Perris Arthur “Buddy” Hamilton, aged 90, passed away peacefully at his home in Galloway, Ohio, on January 2, 2025. He was born September 12, 1934, in West Jefferson, Ohio, to the late Raymond and Hildred Hamilton.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of almost 55 years Donna Lee (Courtney), infant brother Mark Joseph Hamilton, sister Florence Ann Gantt, and brother Thomas Jay Hamilton. He is survived by his children Leslie (Martin) Slane and Michael (Kathleen) Hamilton; cherished grandchildren Dan (Susie) Slane, Christopher (Elizabeth) Hamilton, Courtney (Connor) Grannis, and Carter (Amanda Parel) Hamilton; and treasured great-grandchildren Lily, Edie and Vivian Slane, Evan Hamilton, and Henry and Mollie Grannis. He also leaves behind siblings Sharon Workman, David (Sue) Hamilton, John (Ruth Anne) Hamilton, Stephen (Jane) Hamilton, brother-in-law Jack (Linda) Treinish, and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Buddy lived most of his life in the Columbus area, having attended Central High School where he excelled in football, basketball, baseball, and track. He proudly served in Korea as a U.S. Marine and returned home with a few medals and many unforgettable experiences.

His life-long love of the Buckeyes began as a kid sneaking into games at the Shoe. His love of sports didn’t end with the Buckeyes: it was common to see him watching three different sporting events on three big screen TVs at the same time. He loved competing, from playing sports, to racing cars, to shooting pool, to playing cards, to racing horses as an owner/trainer.

All who knew him would tell you that he led a full life. He started doing odd jobs at age 8 to earn money so he could see a movie at the Grandview Theater and buy a drink, popcorn, and candy bar. He spent many of his early adult years owning and operating service stations followed by years transporting race horses around the U.S. After several cross country trips in their motorhome, he and Donna settled in Fort Myers Beach to enjoy their retirement years, hosting many relatives who enjoyed going to spend some time away from the Ohio winters. Buddy spent much of his time there cultivating his love of painting, playing bridge and making many new friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the home of his nephew, Jack Treinish Jr., on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 4:30 p.m.