Obituary of Madge Durlene Hammer

Madge Durlene Kilpatrick was born on August 7, 1924 in Morenci, Michigan. She was one of four children born from the union of the late Orla Kilpatrick and the late Norma (Shudel) Kilpatrick. Madge attended Monroe Schools graduating with the Class of 1942. She was talented musician, and showcased her abilities participating with the Orchestra, String Base, Band Majorettes, and Dance Band. She married the love of her life, the late, Charles Hammer at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, Illinois on November 20, 1942. From this union came the birth of two wonderful children. First and foremost, Madge looked after the needs of her family as a homemaker. Somehow, she found time over the years to balance being a manager at Tom McKan Shoe Store and United Shirts, and had also worked at Carleton Manufacturing, sewing canteen sleeves and ammo belts. Madge was a longtime member of the Bethany Baptist Church in Monroe. She was the former President of the Stoney Point Beach Association, and first President of the Jefferson High School Band Boosters. Madge loved attending card parties and playing euchre and pinochle. She also like crocheting. Madge Durlene Hammer, age 92, of Newport, passed away peacefully at Magnumcare of Monroe, on February 7, 2017. In addition to her parents and her husband on December 4, 2009, her passing was preceded by a brother: Ray Kilpatrick; and two sisters: JoAnn Kilpatrick and Betty Vancena. To cherish her memory Madge leaves, two children: Charles (Janice) Hammer and Pam (Dale) Nadeau both of Newport; three grandchildren: Charles (Kelly) Hammer of Newport, Matthew Hammer of Westland, and Ryan Nadeau of Newport; six great grandchildren: Desiree (Stuart) McDonald of Scotland, Daniel (Melanie) Hammer of Rockwood, Donovan Hammer of Newport, Dillion Hammer of Newport, Taylor Stough of Monroe, and Dustin Hammer of Newport; and three great-great grandchildren: Gracie Marie Driggers, and Kaiden and Karson Hammer. Friends may gather on Friday, February 10, 2017 from 10:30am until 3:30pm at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Her Life follow at 3:30pm also at Merkle’s with Reverend Rex Jones pastor of Bethany Eagle’s Nest Community Church officiating. A memorial luncheon will follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the wishes of the family. Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration, send a floral arrangement or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.