Shirley Hammje

Shirley Esther Hammje was born on August 19, 1950 in Alexandria, Minnesota to Albert and Esther (Rueckert) Hammje. She was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Shirley attended country school for a time and learned to read and loved reading the newspaper. Shirley lived at home with her parents until age 33. After some brief health problems she moved into a Project New Hope group home and began working at the Alexandria Opportunity Center where she enjoyed various assignments in the workshop and sometimes out in the community. Shirley enjoyed eating out, especially when she got to go to Bayfields. She also enjoyed taking summer camping trips. Shirley enjoyed being around people and making them happy and loved hugs. Shirley died on Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at her residence at the age of 63. She is survived by her brothers, Douglas (Jody) Hammje of Boones Mill, VA and John (Connie) Hammje of Alexandria; nieces, Andrea Hammje, Brenda (Kevin) Agee, Beth (David) Mehaffey; nephews, Nick Hammje and Eric (Lara) Hammje; and cousins. Shirley is preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Esther. Funeral service was held on Wednesday, February 26, 2014 at Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria with Reverends William Moeller and Geoffrey Gronewold officiating. Music was provided by organist, Mertice Brueske and soloist, Janice Doebber. Interment was in Kinkead Cemetery. Casket bearers were John Hammje, Connie Hammje, Nick Hammje, Andrea Hammje, Arlan Kakac, Nancy Euteneuer. Honorary casket bearers were the staff and residents of Prairie Community Services. Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria