Gary Hammen

Gary Lee Hammen - Little Chute - Age 72, entered into his eternal life while at home surrounded by the love of his family on Sunday, May 28, 2023. He was born on Aug. 6, 1950, son of the late Fred and Gladys (Hinkens) Hammen. Gary married Sue Vanden Heuvel on Oct. 20, 1973, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Little Chute. Together they would have celebrated 50 years of marriage this fall. Gary was a lifelong Little Chute resident, and graduated from Little Chute High School, Class of 1968. He truly dedicated his life to serving his community and took great pride in it. He proudly served in the United States Navy for four years; ADRAN USS Ranger aircraft carrier. Gary was a long time member of the American Legions Post #258 in Little Chute. He served on the rifle squad and performed military honors for countless fallen veterans. Gary was also a member of the Little Chute Fire Department for 22 years. After a 44-year career with Thilmany Paper in Kaukauna, Gary was able to retire and enjoy more time hunting, fishing and playing many games of cards. The entire family enjoyed time at the cabin, known as the “Hinky Pad.” Gary and Sue along with Joe and Barb have owned the cabin together for over 30 years. Many amazing memories have been made there with both of their families. Most important to Gary was his faith. Praying daily gave him strength to follow God’s plan. Gary loved his family immensely and treasured time with his beloved grandchildren. He loved attending all of their activities and was proud of each of them. Gary is lovingly survived by his wife: Sue Hammen; children and grandchildren: John and Hollie Hammen (Hunter, Bianca, Titus, Judah, Moses and Hadassah); Abbey and Todd Uhlenbrauck (Walker and Jordyn); Kristin and Peter Van Zeeland (Max, Marie and Megan); siblings: Judith Lamberies, David (Cyndi) Hammen and Jennifer (Mike) Ably; brothers and sisters-in-law: Tricia Hammen, Judd (Donna) Vanden Heuvel, Kay (Ben) Pennings, Bob (Reyne) Vanden Heuvel, Amy (Dan) Berg and Lynn (Dave) Vanden Heuvel; cousin and best friend: Joe (Barb) Coenen, who was like a brother to Gary; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Gary was preceded in death by his daughter: Katie Hammen; parents: Fred and Gladys Hammen; brothers: Dennis Hammen and Dick Berkers; Sue’s parents: Jerome and Noreen Vanden Heuvel. Memorial services will be held at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 14, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church, 411 Vandenbroek St., Little Chute, with Fr. Ron Belitz officiating. Visitation will be at the church from 2 p.m. until the time of the Mass. Full military honors will be performed by the American Legion Post #258 following the Mass. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. For online condolences, please visit www.verkuilenfh.com. The family would like to extend their gratitude to everyone for all the prayers over the past two years, and also thank the providers and Oncology team at ThedaCare; Dr. Harsha Poola, Julia Stoffel, and Nicole Leurhing. Your innovative and compassionate care gave Gary extended quality time with his family.

VERKUILEN-VAN DEURZEN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 101 Canal Street, Little Chute, 920 788 3321, www.verkuilenfh.com