Cherished Father, Grand Father and Friend: Thomas Daniel Hammett, 69, of Palmdale, California, passed away on Sunday March 29th, 2020 after years battling health problems, at home surrounded by family and friends. Thomas was born on December 15th, 1950 to Joseph Daniel Hammett and Frances Dias (Hanley) Hammett in Encino, California. After graduating from Palmdale High School in 1969, where he played varsity basketball and ran track, he joined the United States Military and served four years in the Marine Corps stationed in Camp Pendleton, California. While in the Marines he received the National Defense Service Medal as well as marksmanship badge (rifle). Thomas was honorably discharged from the Marine Corp and went on to study at Santa Barbara College. In 1978, Thomas moved to Oregon to further his education and that is where he met Denise (Kline) Faucette, who thought he looked like John Denver and became her first love. Although they never were married; they have remained close friends and together had two beautiful daughters. Tanya Marie was born August 4th, 1983 and almost exactly two years later, Sarah Jo was born August 5th, 1985. Thomas was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he often mentioned. He was unendingly proud of both his daughters, Tanya and Sarah, and always tried his best to support them. Thomas was also a passionate grandfather and could often be found with his granddaughter, Hayley Anne, when he was not at home. He and Hayley shared their love of playing pranks and often watched the T.V. Show Ridiculousness together to get ideas. The two of them were always together going to the movies or just hanging out at home. Anyone who knew Thomas knew that he was the most loving father and grandfather a family could ask for. Thomas was proceeded in death by his father, Joseph D. Hammett and mother, Frances D. Hanley Hammett as well as his oldest brother, Michael H. Hammett, and brother in law, Kenneth Lunt, as well as his two close friends, Shelly Smith, and Terry Walls. He is survived by his brothers; Patrick J. Hammett and Daniel (Diane) Hammett, sisters; Teresa (Ronald) Thomas, Charlene (Hammett) McGee. As well as his nephews; Randy Lunt and Shawn Lunt, Nieces; Lisa Hammett Hargett and Kathleen McGee, Maureen McGee, and Colleen McGee. Thomas will be missed the most by his girls as he leaves behind his daughters; Tanya Hammett (Jeremiah Hale) and Sarah Hammett (Mike Baker) and his grand daughter Hayley Anne Baker. Thomas was known by his friends as just “Tom” and will be greatly missed by them all especially Mandy and Dave Lewis and his BFF of more than 20 years Susan “Susie Q” Gronewold. The family requests that all flowers and notes are sent to Chapel of The Valley Mortuary. There will be a funeral mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, as well as a Celebration of Life at Palmdale Elks Lodge in Palmdale, California on a future date (TBD). The family has decided on cremation and will have a private event for family in Santa Barbara later.