Josephat ‘Joe’ Hamel second recipient showcased on LCU Wall of Distinction

The Lakeland Credit Union celebrated Josephat (Joe) Hamel on Thursday, June 1, a community founder and businessman. He was added to the bank’s Wall of Distinction and is only the second person showcased in the Credit Union after Victor Ringuette.

A ceremony and BBQ was hosted for Hamel, who initially founded in 1929 Hamel’s Meat Market and has been feeding the Lakeland for 94 years. 

The fourth generation of Hamels now carries the legacy that was started by their great-grandfather. 

For his support in the community, he received the Lakeland Credit Union Legacy Award. 

Apart from receiving the award, he will be seen on the Wall of Distinction which recognizes inspiring individuals from the past and present, who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership and significant contribution to the Lakeland Credit Union and communities in the Lakeland region.  

Joe came to Bonnyville in 1929 to open a meat market described his son Joffre Hamel. There was no refrigeration and he would have to butcher his animals out in the field as there were no slaughterhouses. 

Joe Hamel also served on the Town Council for 33-35 years. Joffre shared how at that time for Joe Hamel it was all about getting food on the table, going to church, and being honest. 

Hamel was also a big part of the foundation of Bonnyville gas, not for money, but for the people of the town to have natural gas and not have to haul wood every second day. 

The two youngest sons of Hamel, Joffre and Reginald, would buy the meat shop in 1965. It was a few short months later that Reginald would pass on due to a drowning accident and Joffre would be the only owner.  

Joffre Hamel and his wife Janice went on to run the meat market together until retirement and passed it on to where the Hamel name would still be strong. 

For 90 years, Hamel’s Meats has had a long journey and legacy that will continue to live on since 1929.