Lorene E. Hamilton

TOPEKA, KS — Lorene E. Hamilton, a woman of remarkable grace, talent, and adventurous spirit, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026, at the age of 96.

A Life of Purpose and Passion

Born on September 22, 1929, in Lebo, Kansas, Lorene was the daughter of Earl and Lola Miller. After graduating from Lebo High School and Clark’s Business College, she entered a life defined by both professional dedication and personal curiosity. In 1954, she married Dr. Richard Hamilton, beginning a partnership that spanned decades.

Lorene was a cornerstone of the family’s orthodontic practices, working for many years alongside her husband at his office, and later with her son at Drs. Hamilton and Hamilton, and then with Drs. Hamilton and Wilson.

A Vibrant Spirit

Lorene did not simply live life; she mastered it. She was a woman who was just as comfortable in the cockpit of a plane as a pilot as she was in the mountains skiing or in the field hunting. Her creative talents were equally diverse. An accomplished artist, she expressed herself through painting, knitting, and meticulous needlepoint—most notably contributing her handiwork to the kneelers at Grace Episcopal Cathedral.

Her kitchen was a place of magic, where she practiced the culinary arts of wine making, taffy pulling, and baking the perfect gooseberry, rhubarb, and mincemeat pies. Lorene was also a dedicated member of her community, active in the Arab Shrine Temple, PEO, the Topeka Dental Auxiliary, and Grace Episcopal Cathedral.

Family and Legacy

Above all her achievements, Lorene’s greatest passion was her family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Richard Hamilton, and her son, Doug Hamilton.

Her legacy of love and vibrance is carried on by:

•              Her sons: Brad H. Hamilton (Beth) of Denver, CO, and Dr. Scott D. Hamilton (Mary) of Topeka, KS.
•              Grandchildren: 14 cherished grandchildren.
•              Great-Grandchildren: 9 great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

Services and Memorials

A celebration of Lorene’s life will be held at Grace Episcopal Cathedral. The service date is pending and will be announced later. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to:

Grace Episcopal Cathedral 701 SW 8th Ave. Topeka, KS 66603