Jerry L. Hammer
Jerry Lee Hammer, age 84, of Aberdeen, South Dakota, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Jerry was born on January 27, 1941, in Aberdeen to Harold “Stub” and Lorraine “Sis” (Cassatt) Hammer. He grew up in Northville, where he spent most of his life and graduated with the Northville High School Class of 1959.
After high school, Jerry proudly served in the United States Air Force. He completed basic training in San Antonio, Texas, and went on to serve at Gettysburg, South Dakota, before being stationed for one and a half years at Incirlik Air Base in Turkey, where he guarded missile installations. He attained the rank of Senior Airman (E-4) and was honorably discharged in 1963 before returning home to Northville.
Jerry worked at Hub City Safeguard for more than 42 years, first as a machinist and later as a supervisor. He was known for being fair, dependable, and someone who always looked out for his team. He also served in a leadership role with the Hub City Credit Union and was a proud member of the American Legion for over two decades.
On September 4, 1965, Jerry married Diane Rodlund, and together they raised four children, Rhonda, Roxane, and twins Renee and Robbin. Their family grew to include nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, all of whom brought them great pride and joy. Jerry was a devoted husband, a hands-on dad, and a steady presence for his family. He lived by strong values, always ready to lend a hand or share wisdom with those around him.
Jerry and Diane made the most of their time together. They treasured their weekly “Friday Night Friends” dinners and movie nights, and after retirement, they enjoyed escaping South Dakota winters to spend time in Oklahoma with Rhonda. They were looking forward to celebrating 60 years of marriage in September.
Jerry had a lifelong talent for fixing things; if it was broken, he could likely repair it. He enjoyed working on cars, wood working, and competing in trap shooting and “Quick Draw Cowboy” events. He was fascinated by black powder muzzleloaders and built a collection of guns and belt buckles over the years. His signature handlebar mustache was as much a part of his identity as his generous heart.
One of his favorite companions was Tommy, a stray cat that Jerry and Diane “adopted” more than ten years ago. Tommy quickly became king of the house and was lovingly referred to as the “chosen one.”
Robbin, Mark, and their children lived just across the street and were always nearby to lend a hand, taking care of chores, yard work, and anything else Jerry and Diane needed. In the past few years, as Jerry’s health declined, Rhonda returned to South Dakota to help care for both him and Diane. Their steady support brought comfort and made it possible for Jerry to remain at home, surrounded by those who loved him.
Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Diane Hammer of Aberdeen; his children, Rhonda Griffith of Aberdeen, Roxane (Korey) Beardemphl of Ashton, Renee Nordmeyer of Brookings, and Robbin (Mark) Sieler of Aberdeen; nine grandchildren: Taylor, Torey, Garett, Bay, Sydney, Matt, Marina, Seattra, and Tafyra; and six great-grandchildren: Madison, Silven, Rhiannon, Rorey, Asher, and Orion. He is also survived by his sisters, Yvonne “Bon” Borchard and Doreen (Duane) Weideman; his in-laws, Jim (Jennie) Rodlund and Kathleen (Larry) Gatz; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Lorraine Hammer; his in-laws, Nathaniel and Helen (Thomas) Rodlund; his brothers-in-law, Daryl Borchard, Richard “Elvis” Rodlund, Duane Rodlund, and Tommy Rodlund; his stepbrother, Henry F. Illis; and his dear uncle, Elmer Cassatt, who passed away earlier this year at the age of 102 and a half years.
Jerry lived a full and meaningful life that was rooted in family, defined by hard work, and guided by a heart full of kindness. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.