Patrick Hammer

Patrick A. Hammer, age 67 of Erie, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2015 at UPMC Hamot.

He was born July 18, 1948 in Erie, the son of Rita Kutz Hammer of Erie, and the late Robert Hammer.

Patrick graduated from Academy High School, Class of 1966 and served in the U.S. Navy and served two extended deployments in Vietnam. He worked mainly on special teams with the construction and amphibious units, including MCB74, MCB11, ACB One. He also worked with 3rd Marines, First Marines and the Army’s Americal Division on different operations in Vietnam. Before he was discharged, Pat was diving supervisor in charge of all diving operations on ACB One. His service medals included: the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Fleet Marine Force Combat Operations Insignia, Combat Action Ribbon, Expert Rifleman Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, C Builder 3rd. Pat was also a 2nd Class Navy Diver.

Patrick worked in commercial sales at Home Depot, and also at Grossman’s Home Improvement, retiring in 2014.

He also pursued his career with local bands around town.

Pat loved his family more than anything. He enjoyed golfing and being with good friends.

Survivors include his wife, love of his life and best friend, Pearl I. Jones Hammer, whom he married April 18, 1987, his son Robert Hammer of Los Angeles, stepsons Alan Schultz and Gregory Truschel both of Erie, eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements entrusted to Burton Wintergreen Funeral Home, 2532 Norcross Road.

Pat’s last words are: "Spend a day in another man’s shoes; Never judge people by their looks; Treat every person you meet with an open mind, and treat them the same way you would like to be treated; There really is a God, just talk to Him, and thank Him for another day."