2009-09-19T03:27:00.000-07:00

DEVOTED HUSBAND,
BROTHER, UNCLE

WINE GENIUS

JAZZ MAVEN

LAKER FANATIC

SMOOTH DANCER

SHARP DRESSER

CRITICAL THINKER

WONDERFUL FRIEND

Chip died Saturday, September 5th, 2009, at his home in Sherman Oaks, CA, in hospice, with his wife Natasha at his bedside.

He was diagnosed with stomach cancer last October and he battled it with determination, courage, and humor to the end.

Those who knew Chip, knew a man of keen intelligence, warmth, quick wit, and passion for a wide array of interests and friends. He possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of jazz; was an avid, if not obsessive, fan of the LA Lakers - he actually understood the triangle offense and would gladly explain it if you had an extra hour or two.

He had a degree in Theater from the Goodman School in Chicago, acted on stage and television, wrote and co-wrote screenplays and plays for the stage.

Chip was a wine savant. What started as a survival job to pay the bills between acting gigs became an avocation, a passion, and finally, a career; one he excelled in. He had an educated, exquisite palette; a thorough knowledge of wine, wine making, and the industry, and was generous with that knowledge to colleagues and laymen alike. It is a world he relished and it rewarded him in turn.

He met Natasha, the love of his life and true partner, in Chicago. They married in 1986 and moved to Los Angeles soon after. As anyone who knows them can testify, it was a very good fit. She has been his loving nurse, nurturer, and stalwart throughout. Our deepest sympathies.

Chip was not a fan of half-measures; he was a true enthusiast and a natural teacher; a funny, compassionate, kind, and gentle man.

He will be truly and deeply missed.

He was a good friend.

A MEMORIAL CELEBRATION OF CHIP HAMMACK'S LIFE:

   When: Sunday, October 25, 4PM to 8PM

Location: The home of Lucy Butler & Greg Gelfan
   243 S. Rockingham Avenue
   Los Angeles, CA 90049

   4pm Arrivals & refreshments
   5pm Memorial
   6pm - 8pm Immediately following the memorial,
   you are invited to stay for a bite to eat
   and to raise your glass in a toast to Chip.

RSVP: Terry at: teabows@msn.com

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WILLIAM "CHIP" HAMMACK

2009-09-13T17:04:00.000-07:00

This was published in the K&L Wines newsletter.

Chip helped them develop and open their Hollywood store and loved being part of their organization.

Throughout, they have been and continue to be, incredibly generous and supportive friends.

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CHIP HAMMACK 1954-2009

WILLIAM "CHIP" HAMMACK