William Hamric

William H. "Pete" Hamric

William H. "Pete" Hamric, 96, passed away peacefully at home on October 8, 2026, surrounded by family. He left behind a legacy of dedicated service, quiet strength, and deep devotion to his family. Born on August 24, 1930, in Frametown, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Clyde and Delphia Hamric.

After graduating from Clay County High School in West Virginia and attending West Virginia Tech, Pete proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War era, reaching the rank of Technical Sergeant. During his four years of active duty, he served in the 3206th Test Wing (Technical Support) and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

Following his military service, Pete built a long and distinguished career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Huntington District). He spent decades contributing to major infrastructure projects, most notably playing a key role in the construction and oversight of the Sutton, Summersville, Burnsville and Stonewall Jackson Dams in West Virginia, and the Deer Creek, Paint Creek, and Alum Creek Dams in Ohio. After retiring from the Corps of Engineers in 1985, he continued lending his expertise to Lane Construction for several years. He was a 50+ year member of the Gilmer County Lodge #118 Free and Accepted Masons. An exceptionally talented craftsman, Pete was known for his mastery of hands-on projects; there was hardly a task or build he could not solve or repair. Outside of work, he was an avid sports fan who loved following golf, baseball, and West Virginia Mountaineer football and basketball. He also enjoyed relaxing with a good western novel or working crossword puzzles. Above all, Pete was a dedicated family man. He loved bringing everyone together, especially during the holidays, when his home was filled with delicious meals, warmth, laughter, and conversation. Pete is survived by his beloved wife, Rozella A. Hamric, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and devotion. He is also survived by his children: V. Ann (Mick) Riley of Circleville, OH; Teddy W. (Deborah) Hamric of Circleville, OH; Beverly L. (Wesley) Riley of Stoutsville, OH; and Tony R. (Tina) Hamric of Circleville, OH. He is also survived by his granddaughters, Brooke A. (Andy) Finckel and Blaire C. Hamric, and his great-granddaughter, Cambree R. Finckel. He was preceded in death by his sister and brother. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Berger Hospital and Circleville Heartland Hospice for their dedication, kindness, and compassionate care during Pete’s illness.

A private graveside service will be held to honor his memory. Memorial contributions may be made to Circleville Heartland Hospice 116 Morris Road, Suite B, Circleville, OH 43113 or Disabled American Veterans (DAV), P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301 or online at dav.org. Online condolences can be made at www.wellmanfuneralhomes.com.