Tony Van Hammond

Tony Van Hammond, a proud union tradesman, devoted father, and lifelong problem-solver, passed away suddenly on December 2, 2025, at the age of 65. Born on February 25, 1960, in Dayton, Ohio, Tony lived a life full of generosity, grit and an unmistakable sense of humor that left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A graduate of West Carrollton High School, Class of 1978, Tony went on to serve his country in the United States Navy before building a distinguished career as a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local #24. During his more than three decades in the trades, he rose to serve as President of the Lima Building Trades, respected for his leadership, sharp mind, and unwavering loyalty to his fellow workers.

To most who crossed his path, Tony was known for his quick one-liners and his ability to find laughter in nearly any moment. To many of his sons’ friends, he was simply “Coach,” having devoted 12 years to coaching little league baseball—a role he loved and took to heart. He was a caregiver in every sense of the word, a man who would drop anything to help someone he cared about, and whose acts of quiet selflessness shaped the people around him.

Tony’s skills stretched far beyond his job title. He had a rare, natural ingenuity—whether fixing cars, tackling home projects, or inventing solutions no one else had considered. His cleverness and resourcefulness ultimately led to his pending patent for a specialized hair dryer, a project he was deeply proud of.

His passions were as varied as they were wholehearted. He loved cooking and sharing meals with family. He played travel softball, enjoyed nothing more than the freedom of riding his motorcycle, and approached life with a take-the-bull-by-the-horns spirit that never faded. One of his favorite stories involved catching what would have been the largest paddlefish on record in Ohio—though he was underage and the fish was on the endangered species list, so the official credit was withheld. Still, the newspaper article (and his pride) remain.

Above all else, Tony cherished his family. He found tremendous joy in spending time with his grandchildren—Vincent, Reece, Natalie, Darla, and Cecilia—each of whom held a special place in his heart. His children and grandchildren were, without question, his greatest source of pride.

Tony is survived by his loving mother, Mary Hammond; his sons, Lee (Sara) Hammond and Edward (Meghan) Hammond; his sister, Tina Hammond; his grandchildren; his special friend, Teresa Barker; and the mother of his children, Pamela (Larry) Helton. He is also survived by many extended family members and friends who will forever carry his memory.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lloyd Hammond Sr., and his brothers, Nick Hammond and Lloyd Edward Hammond Jr.

Tony leaves behind a legacy of creativity, loyalty, humor, and heart. His absence will be felt deeply, but the love he gave—freely, fearlessly, and without hesitation—will continue to echo through the lives of those who knew him. His memory will remain warm in our hearts, and his spirit will live on in every story told, every laugh shared, and every problem solved with the kind of cleverness only he could inspire.

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