Ross Gene Hamilton

Ross Gene Hamilton, 68, of Redding, CA, departed this life on January 19, 2016, at home, with his family by his side, due to complications from Parkinson's disease.Born in August of 1947 to James and Emogene Hamilton, Ross attended elementary school in Orland, CA, high school in Durham, CA, and graduated from California State University, Chico, with a degree in Agriculture.Ross was honored to serve his country in Vietnam as a proud member of the United States Marine Corps.Ross was best known and beloved in the community for devoting 34 years to the public schools as an Agriculture Instructor and FFA Advisor for Shasta Union High School District. During this time, and to his delight, many of his students were the children of previous students. Over his career, he received countless accolades from fellow teachers, institutions, dignitaries, farmers, and families. However, what gave him the most pleasure, and comfort later in life, were the lifelong friendships and memories made. Ross retired from teaching in 2009, to pursue his dream of owning his own ranch.Ross enjoyed many great adventures with his wife, Kellie, during their 12 years together. He loved fishing, camping, and riding his Harley. When asked if there was anything that he would do differently, he replied: "Not one single thing."Ross dearly loved his two sons and his three grandsons. He was very proud of his boys, and his times with them were highlights of his life.Ross is survived by his beloved wife, Kellie (Might); his sons Justin and wife Nancy of Simi Valley, CA, and Brett and wife Marissa of Lincoln, CA, and grandsons, Eric, Garrett, and Ian of Simi Valley, CA. He is also survived by his brothers James of Picayune, MS, and Jerry of Orland, CA, as well as loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, and a host of long-time friends. Ross also leaves his loving and loyal dogs, Liz and Leslie. Military Honors will be held at the Northern California Veterans Cemetery, Igo, California on Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Services are being handled by McDonalds Funeral Chapel of Redding, CA. 530-241-1626, A celebration in honor of Ross' life will be held immediately following, at the Gaia Hotel, Anderson.Donations may be made to the Ross Gene Hamilton Agricultural Scholarship Fund at the Shasta County Farm Bureau, 530-547-7170.A special thank you to those who worked tirelessly on Ross' and Kellie's behalf during his last days: Joel, Nurse Eileen, and Nurse Connie. And to Nurse Susan, thank you for all your help from day one.Ross was an honest, loyal, big-hearted, generous man, who lived life fully, and on his own terms. He will be forever remembered and missed by all of us.