Life Story: Robert Hammer, 96; Aviation Enthusiast

Robert Phillip Hammer, 96, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on November 1 at his home in Somerset.

Robert was born July 1, 1923 in Karlsruhe, Germany to the late Kraft and Amelia (Botti) Hammer. He immigrated to the United States in 1956 through Canada and settled in Long Island, NY. He met his wife Betty in New York City and they were married one year later in December of 1957. He then relocated to Leonia, NJ where he lived for 55 years. In 2005, he and his wife settled in Somerset, NJ.

Robert worked as a machinist in Long Island, NY. After marrying Betty, he joined and ran the family restaurant located in Union City, NJ. Before retiring, he was a pressman for North Jersey Press in Clifton, NJ. Throughout his lifetime, he was an aviation enthusiast. He owned his own glider and was a member of both the National Soaring Society and the Wurtsboro Soaring Club. Robert was a lover of skiing, belonging to the New York Ski Club where he met his wife. Together, he and Betty traveled extensively throughout Europe and the United States.

In his later years, he loved reading his favorite books and watching professional hockey and tennis. He loved spending time with his family and friends. Never being one to turn down a hot home cooked meal, especially those made by his wife.

He is survived by his loving wife Betty (Mack) of 62 years, his daughter, Monika Courtney and her husband Bruce of Whitehouse Station, NJ and his grandchildren, Nicholas and Meredith Courtney. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.

All services are private at the request of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Robert Hammer’s name to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

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