George E. Hamister
May 10, 1922 - August 15, 2010
Beloved family member, friend, Hamister Group Senior Officer and pioneer.
George E. Hamister, devoted family man, dedicated professional and caring friend, entered into rest August 15, 2010 at the age of 88. George leaves behind a legacy of professional accomplishments not only for the Hamister Group, but also for the western New York engineering community, who benefitted from his creativity and extraordinary work ethic.
George founded the Hamister Engineering consulting practice after successful careers at Columbus McKinnon and Diebold (Syracuse). Hamister Engineering evolved into the Asset Management Division of National Health Care Affiliates, Inc. (The Hamister Group, LLC predecessor company) and in the early 80s, George became a shareholder in NHCA and served as a Director and as Senior Vice President of Asset Management until he retired in 2002.
George led the original design of The Hamister Group's assisted living facilities Brompton Heights and Orchard Heights. He had been a resident of Brompton Heights for two years and spent his last days there surrounded by the love and support of his Hamister Group family.
During his 20 plus years with the family business, George was instrumental in helping the Company to pioneer resort or hotel-like settings for the seniors that lived in the Company's assisted and skilled level facilities. Mark Hamister added, "My Dad was among the first in our Company to challenge traditional design standards by adding several resort living style environmental improvements. His creativity made us stronger as a company and more focused on resident quality of life."
"Dad always encouraged us to pursue our passions...and to do it honestly," son Mark recalls. "He personified extraordinary values and let them guide his personal, professional and spiritual life. He always encouraged us to not be quick to judge others and to always be true to our values, even when it was difficult to do so. These were hallmarks of his advice at all Board of Directors meetings," Mark Hamister added.
Mr. Hamister is predeceased by his eldest son William, his sister Alberta and his brother, Oliver. He is survived by his wife, Jane; his three sons, Robert, Mark and Brian; six grandchildren; and two great grand children.
George left an indelible mark on The Hamister Group, his family, friends and community. He will be truly missed.
