A Mass of Christian Burial for David Michael Hamilton, 73, of Newark, will be held at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, April 23, 2025, with Father David Sizemore as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Newark.

Dave passed peacefully at his home, surrounded by the love of his family, on Saturday, April 12, 2025. He was born in Newark, Ohio on June 14, 1951, to the late Raymond R. and Rita (Groff) Hamilton.

A parishioner of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Dave had attended Newark Catholic and Newark High School, prior to embarking on an adventure to California where he found his craft. Dave spent the majority of his career building engines and had his own business known as Jet Ski East along with his own race team. He continued to build engines for jet skis and designing parts for Kawasaki as well as motorsport racing. His impeccable reputation for success was known worldwide earning him the nickname of "Big Wave Dave". He took great pride in designing and building engines, as well as any household item, making improvements until they worked better than their original intention. He loved a challenge.

Dave traveled extensively for many years, making countless acquaintances and friends along the way. He could easily pick up a conversation with a friend that he had not seen in 20 years and make it seem like it was just yesterday. His easy natured smile and big personality put those around him at ease, making conversation without hesitation. He had a special knack for making each person feel noticed, especially within his own neighborhood, creating specific bird calls for his surrounding neighbors who loved to call him the "bird man".

His greatest joy was bringing happiness to others.  His antics and ability to make people smile will be remembered by all who were blessed to have known him.

Dave will be greatly missed by his wife of 36 years, Suzette Almeida Hamilton; sister, Barbara (Bob) Morrison; mother-in-law, Aida Almeida; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Rosemarie (Herbert) Hiers and Antonio (Elaine) Almeida; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Antonio Almeida.

Friends and family may call at the Reed-Egan Funeral Home, 141 Green Wave Drive, Newark, 4-7 P.M., Tuesday, April 22, 2025, with a Vigil Service held at 6:30 P.M.

Dave was comforted by his cats and the great joy they added to his daily life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the Licking County Humane Society, 825 Thornwood Drive, Heath, Oh 43056; or to a charity of your choice.

To share your memory of Dave or leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.reedegan.com