Michael William Hamilton
Mike Hamilton was an entrepreneur who served his community with passion, a strong work ethic and kindness in his heart. He will be missed greatly by his family and a community that was blessed with his presence.
Michael William Hamilton was born on April 12, 1957, in Bellingham, Wash., to James and Barbara Hamilton. He graduated from Moses Lake High School in 1975, already known as someone who understood the value of hard work and responsibility.
Mike was a dreamer from the very beginning. While still in high school, he worked at Chet’s Drive-In and quietly built a dream of owning the restaurant one day. Long before the doors opened each morning, Mike could be found there putting away freight and preparing the restaurant before Chet even arrived. That work ethic and that dream came full circle when, at just 18 years old, Mike purchased the restaurant himself. That moment marked the beginning of a lifelong career as an entrepreneur and restaurateur.
It did not take long for Mike to realize that one restaurant was not enough. His vision grew, and soon after, he set his sights on the local A&W, which he proudly added to his growing ventures. The dreams and aspirations never stopped. With the support of his family and the partnership of his loving wife, Krista, Mike went on to help shape and grow several restaurants that became cornerstones of the Moses Lake community. Together, they transformed Michael’s on the Lake into what it is today and later opened Michael’s Market & Bistro and Rock Top Burgers & Brew, each rooted in family, hospitality and community connection.
While Mike had a true passion for food, travel, and the restaurant industry, it was always secondary to his devotion to his family. He was a deeply caring husband, father and grandfather whose love for his family was unwavering and genuine. His humility was one of his defining traits. Mike never sought recognition and often tried to avoid the spotlight altogether. If there was an event where he might be acknowledged, he would be the one quietly standing in the back, hoping to slip out unnoticed. He was proud of what he built, but even prouder of the people around him.
Mike was a true friend and a community-minded leader. If there was a need in the community, he was there, quietly giving, supporting and helping without ever expecting credit. His generosity and belief in taking care of others left a lasting mark on countless lives.
Outside of work, Mike enjoyed time in his yard, expanding his car collection, spending time in Arizona and traveling the world with Krista. No matter where he went, home and family were always at the center of his heart.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, James and Barbara Hamilton, his brother, Craig Hamilton, and Craig’s wife, Teresa.
He is survived by his wife, Krista Hamilton; his sons, Jordan (Manuel) Hamilton and Taylor Hamilton; his grandchildren, Baylee, Harlee, Kinlee and Rowdee; his great-grandchildren, Gracyn and Roy; and his nephew, Derek.
Mike passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, after a courageous 20-year battle with cancer. He was 68.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Moses Lake Presbyterian Church. A private interment will take place at Guardian Angels Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mike’s memory to the Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation at .
Please express your thoughts and memories for the family at columbiabasincancerfoundation.org.
Memories and condolences may be left at https://bit.ly/MHAMILTON. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.