Michael J. Hammer

Michael John Hammer, 84, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Saturday, May 2, 2026.  He was born on Diener's Hill-Pottsville on November 11, 1941. 

Born to the late Michael and Susan (Kalyan) Hammer, Michael, known lovingly to family and friends as "Babe", was also preceded in death by his wife of 38 years, Sally Rose Hammer (Hopkins), his sister, Maryann Kersten, and his brother, Steve Hammer.

Babe is survived by his sister, Ellen Sinkovich and her husband George; his beloved companion of 22 years, Barbara Behrmann; his sons, Michael Hammer and his wife Michelle, and Brian Hammer and his companion Rachelle Freed.  He was a proud grandfather to Michael Hammer and his wife Angelina, Alexis Hoffman and her husband Kevin, Justin Hammer, Nicholas Hammer, and Gabrielle Schane and her husband Cody.  He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Callie Rose Schane and Wesley Hoffman, as well as many nieces and nephews. 

A devoted member of St. Michael Orthodox Church throughout his life, Babe generously volunteered his time tending bar and working in the kitchen, often rolling halupkies, in service to the church and for the greater glory of God.  He was also a member of the St. Michael's Citizen's Club.  

Babe was a lifetime member of the St. Clair Fish and Game Club, where he proudly served as an officer and trustee for several decades.  He was also a member of Arnot's Fish and Game and the Mechanicsville Game and Fish Association, where he especially enjoyed playing pinochle.  

A 1959 graduate of St. Clair High School, Babe was an Army veteran who honorably served his country.  Following his military service, he spent much of his working life in coal mining, a profession deeply rooted in his family history.  He was last employed by Reading Anthracite before retiring in 2004.  In addition, he worked alongside his sons through their family business, In and Out Contracting, taking pride in every job, no matter how small.  

 Babe loved the outdoors and treasured time spent with family and friends hunting and fishing.  He especially cherished his time "up north" in Lycoming and Tioga counties, where he enjoyed visiting many camps over the years. 

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026 at St. Michael Orthodox Church, 106 North Morris Street, St. Clair, PA 17970 at 11AM with Very Rev. Jeff Zias, officiating.  A military service will follow.  Relatives and friends are invited to call from 10AM to 11AM on Friday morning at the church.  Interment will be private in Mount Laurel Cemetery, Pottsville at the convenience of the family.  

Babe will be remembered for his generosity, deep faith, strong work ethic, and the love he shared so freely with his family and friends.

The family would prefer donations that allow disabled veterans to enjoy the outdoors at Camp Freedom. Donations can be made online www.campfreedompa.org or mailed to Camp Freedom 284 Number 7 Road, Carbondale, PA 18407.  

James H. Evans Funeral Home, Inc., St. Clair is entrusted with arrangements.  

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