Henry Curtis “Plug” Hamm, 84, of Winnie, went to his Heavenly home Tuesday, March 5, 2013, at The Arboretum of Winnie. He was born December 8, 1928, in Port Arthur to Richard George Hamm and Agnes Marie Roddy Hamm.
Henry retired from Gulf Oil/Chevron after thirty-two years, and was a member of many political clubs and social organizations throughout his life.
Henry Hamm had many years of volunteer experience under his belt from being a long time Jaycees member. He had been active as their Santa in the Port Arthur Christmas Parades and programs and in fundraising, and also in helping to bring big names to Pleasure Island’s concert venue. As a member of Central Baptist Church he was fundamental in their van program, providing transportation to people with mobility issues. Henry was part of Chambers County’s CERT team that goes around before and after disasters, making sure people are safe. He also was active in the American Red Cross and helped in shelter activities for Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Ike. Henry was one of the founding members of the American Legion Post 255 and served as Treasurer for several years.
On the political side of things he was raised in a Union family, with his father being a member of the group that brought the union to the refineries in Port Arthur. He was a Union Steward for what was once the OCAW and is now the USW. He has volunteered for everyone from his childhood friend, Carl Parker, to Ann Richards, Michael Dukakis, Cindy Jenkins, Nick Lampson and many others. He was Democratic Precinct Seven Chair for many years. This was not a position he particularly sought, but accepted when written in. He always taught his children the value of helping others. One of his favorite things to say was, “No matter what, there will always be people who have more than you and are better than you, but there will always be people that have less and need help. In the end we cannot think too highly of ourselves and should work to help others.”
He is survived by his loving wife of fifty years, Ivy Huber Hamm of Winnie; six children, Robert Hamm and his wife, Dana, of Groves; Christie Bushart and her husband, Steve, of Conroe; Kurtis Hamm and his fiancé, Shelly Black, of the Woodlands; Patti Talley and her husband, Louis, of Groves; Nancy Hamm, of Groves; and Mary Hamm, of Winnie; grandchildren, Leah Spell, Brian Bushart, Leesa Bushart, Jesse Hamm, Jacob Hamm, Morgan Talley, Tayler Mackie, and Madison Faith; great-grandchildren, Caden Bushart and Coleton Bushart; brother, George Hamm and his wife, Beulah; and numerous other family members and friends.
A gathering of Mr. Hamm’s family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 6, 2013, at Broussard’s, 134 West Buccaneer Drive, Winnie. His funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 7, 2013 at Broussard’s, with a graveside service at 2:00 p.m. at Oak Bluff Memorial Park Cemetery, 618 Block Street, Port Neches.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Mr. Hamm’s name to the American Cancer Society, 755 South 11th Street, Suite 212, Beaumont, Texas 77701 or the American Red Cross, 3260 Eastex Fwy, Beaumont, Texas 77703.
