‘Middleton Letter’ Editor Passes Away

Carol Ann Middleton Hammes passed away Feb. 22 in Littleton, Colo. at age 54. Hammes was the founder of the Middleton Group Inc., an insurance consulting firm with offices in Colorado and Illinois.

Hammes, editor of The Middleton Letter, was often quoted in major insurance industry publications and was the main contributor for PRO 83, Agency Operations and Sales Management. She was a well-respected and sought after consultant, and spoke to agents across the country. Her newsletter gave advice to clients and subscribers of all size agencies and insurance companies across the country.

She started her career at Hales & Associates prior to founding
The Middleton Group in 1984.

“Carol was very dedicated to our industry and helped so many independent agents,” Catherine Oak, president of Glen Ellen, Calif.-based Oak & Associates. “No matter how small the agency, she would always take the time to listen to them and give advice, often without even sending them a bill for their time. Agents will always remember her contributions, her tenacity and spunk, both on and off the stage. There is definitely a void now that Carol is gone.”

She is survived by her mother, Helen Reed Middleton of San Antonio, Texas; brother, John Middleton of Hamburg, Germany; sister, Elizabeth (Bill) Phelps of Crystal Lake, Ill; boyfriend, Fred Paul of Miami, Fla.; and several nieces and nephews.

A private memorial service was held on March 8 for family and close friends. Donations can be made in her name to the National Parks Conservation Assn. 1300 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036.