Obituary of Ernest Eugene Hammel Sr.

Ernest Eugene Hammel Sr. “Ernie” “Gene” “Dad” “Papa” Ernest passed away on July 12, 2022 peacefully at home surrounded by loving family. Ernest was born on September 23, 1956 in Keokuk, Iowa to Ernest and Betty Hammel. He grew up loving everyone and making wonderful life long memories with his siblings. Ernest married June Hammel on April 11, 1982. After their marriage they welcomed 2 children into the world, Chrystal and Ernest Jr. This began their soon to be large family of many grandchildren. Ernest enjoyed many things life has to offer, fishing, canoeing, riding his 3 wheeled bike around town and picking up free treasures from the side of the road. Most of all, he loved his children and grandchildren, he loved helping them make memories to carry forever. He aspired to make anyone and everyone happy. Nobody was a stranger to him, he made a friend of everyone he came across. Ernest was also a big collector. If you walked into his house you would see a plethora of Coca Cola memorabilia from mugs to stuffed animals. He is preceded in death by his parents Ernest and Betty Hammel. Brothers Charles McKinna and George Hardesty. Sisters Janie Hammel and Jeannie Bevel. He is survived by his wife June Hammel. Children Chrystal Machholz - spouse David and Ernest Hammel Jr - spouse Shana. Grandchildren Isaiah Castro, Dayzy Pearl, Chayse Pearl, Oden Hammel, Cyrus Vevera, Kingstyn Vevera, Phoebe Hammel, Eden Baird, Esther Baird, Elia Baird. Siblings Christine Hardesty Hartley, James Hammel, Ruth Fox, Danny Hammel and Paul Hammel. Many nieces and nephews. Ernest would never let anyone tell him goodbye, only later. So for now, we will see him later.