Irene O. DAUNAIS

AGAWAM - Irene O. (Daunais) Hamel, 73, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday December 14, 2005. Born in Springfield August 17, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Louis J. and Marie-Louise (Duchaine) Buoniconti and the late Joseph O. Daunais. She was educated in Springfield Schools. She was the beloved wife of the late Leo B. Hamel who died January 26, 1979. She was a longtime employee for the Town of Agawam and worked in the school systems as food service preparer. Irene was also very active in the town's Meals on Wheels Program and also worked in the Food Services at the former Riverside Park for several years. Irene enjoyed crocheting and was an avid bingo player in her spare time. Irene is survived by her two cherished sons, David W. Hamel and his wife Sharon of Southwick; Leo J. Hamel and his wife, Kelly of Feeding Hills; two cherished daughters, Donna L. Lavalette of Springfield; Debra L. Hamel of Agawam; two dear brothers, Robert Daunais of South Hadley; Louis Buoniconti of Wales, MA and a dear sister, Doris Scalia of Enfield, CT. She will be lovingly remembered by her six grandchildren, Richard and Christopher Lavalette, Kyrsten and David Jr. Hamel, Tyler and Kalene Hamel. Irene also leaves many loving nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a sister, Lucy Cust and two brothers, Rich and Frank Buoniconti. Irene was a lifelong resident of Agawam and will be remembered for her generosity and concern for those less fortunate. Irene's family will receive friends on Sunday from 3-7 p.m. at the funeral home. A funeral service will be celebrated by Rev. Michael Twohig on Monday December 19th at 10 a.m. in the Colonial Forastiere Funeral Home 985 Main Street, Agawam. The Rites of Committal will follow in St. Thomas Cemetery, West Springfield. If friends desire, memorial donations in her name may be made to Baystate VNA and Hospice 50 Maple Street, P.O. Box 9058 Springfield, MA 01102-9058. Published in The Republican on 12/16/2005.