Kevin Thomas Hammill

Kevin Thomas Hammill passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, at the age of 73.

Born on February 14, 1953, in Whittier, California, Kevin was the son of Ted and Alice Hammill. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Ted Hammill Jr.

Kevin is survived by his daughter, Mindy Hammill of Watsonville; grandchildren, Nadeen (Gabe) Howard of Pacific Grove, Nia Mendez, and Adrian Gonzalez of Watsonville; great-granddaughter, Zoe Howard of Pacific Grove; brothers Tim (Lupe) Hammill of Watsonville, John (Janette) Hammill of Wyoming, and Brian (Leslie) Hammill of Anchorage, Alaska; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Growing up in Whittier, Kevin enjoyed family outings to the Southern California beaches, where he and his brothers spent countless hours body surfing the waves at Laguna Beach. In 1966, the Hammill family moved to La Selva Beach, where Kevin developed a lifelong love of surfing and formed many lasting friendships along the Santa Cruz County coastline. He attended Mora Catholic High School in Watsonville and graduated early.

Determined to serve his country, Kevin enlisted in the United States Navy on his 17th birthday. He served honorably during the Vietnam War from 1970 to 1974, attaining the rank of Boatswain's Mate Second Class (BM2). During nearly four years of active duty, including more than three and a half years of sea service, Kevin served aboard USS Cacapon (AO-52) and later with Fighter Squadron 96, the renowned "Fighting Falcons." His military decorations included the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and Navy Good Conduct Medal. He remained proud of his military service throughout his life.

Following his return home, Kevin worked as a welder at a Watsonville company that built ambulances. His entrepreneurial spirit soon led him into the mobile home industry, where he obtained his dealer's license and built a successful business installing manufactured homes throughout Santa Cruz County.

Kevin loved the freedom his work provided and took every opportunity to travel. Hawaii became one of his favorite destinations, and many of his trips there were shared with his daughter, Mindy. Together they created treasured memories exploring the islands and enjoying the special bond they shared.

Above all, Kevin was a man of faith. He loved God and faithfully served his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His faith guided him throughout his life and sustained him through his battle with cancer. Kevin faced his illness without fear because he knew it was not the end, but the beginning of a new journey. In his final days, he was at peace, comforted by his faith and God's promise of eternal life.

Interment with full military honors will be held at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery on July 6, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Family and friends wishing to attend are asked to arrive early, as the military service will begin promptly at 2:00 p.m.

Rest in peace, Kevin. Until we meet again.

Mehl's Colonial Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Published in The Pajaronian · June 23, 2026