Gregory Allan Hammer
January 03, 2020
Greg was born in Des Moines, IA on July 26, 1955 to Dale and Clara (Powers) Hammer. He loved being outdoors—spending time with his brothers and cousins and visiting his grandparents’ farm. He was active in Boy Scouts and earned his Eagle Scout.
Greg had a deep love for education. He graduated from Hoover High School and went on to earn degrees from Northwest Missouri State University, Wheaton College, DMACC, Faith Baptist Bible College, and Columbia Evangelical Seminary. Greg’s career also echoed his passion for education. He began his teaching career at Des Moines Christian School, spent some time in computer programing and working in Christian retail, and eventually retired as a faculty member teaching world religions and philosophy at DMACC. He particularly enjoyed teaching at DMACC as he could explore many religions with his students while also being able to present the gospel to his students as they explored Christianity.
Greg’s love of education was unmatched by his love for his family. Greg married the love of his life, Roxan Brown, on June 7, 1980. Their desire for children led them to adopt their son Tim in 1986 and their daughter Sarah in 1993. Greg loved playing outside with the kids, taking family vacations to Colorado, and attending the kids’ many activities. He stayed connected with his extended family and cherished the opportunities to connect with them on holidays and when they would return to Des Moines. Later in life, Greg loved being a grandpa and enjoyed going for walks and sharing popsicles with his grandkids.
More than anything, Greg loved the Lord. He was very active in his church—spending many years in the Evangelism Explosion ministry, teaching a new believers class, and leading Bible studies. He spent hours studying scripture and in prayer by himself and with cherished prayer partners.
Greg’s health was a challenge for most of his adult life. He received kidneys from both Clara and Tim which helped improve and extend his life. Skin cancer became more frequent and substantive as the years continued. He was grateful for the many doctors and nurses who expertly cared for him through numerous cancer treatments and surgeries. His family is also grateful for the care he received as he passed peacefully to his eternal home.
Greg is survived by his wife of 39-1/2 years, Roxan; son, Tim (Ericka) of Minnesota; daughter, Sarah (Tymore) Pearson of Mississippi; grandchildren, Everion, Ezhanna, Elizabeth, Sahara, and Serenity; mother, Clara; brothers, Mike of Iowa and Bill (Liwen) of Colorado; and numerous nieces and nephews. Greg was preceded in death by his father, Dale.
Memorial contributions may be directed to NorthPoint Church for Missions. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Reehan MALIK
01/18/2022
Today is a sad day for me as I learned of Greg's passing away. His family, particularly his wife Roxane, may please accept my heartfelt condolences.
I went to Northwest Missouri State University with Greg. We shared the same floor in the Cooper Hall dorm. He was such an unbelievable friend. He made my stay at NWMSU unforgettable. So lovingly he invited me to stay with his family in Des Moines during the spring break of 1977. We drove to his home at 5812 Snyder (Hope my memory has served well). I loved every moment of my stay with them. My first introduction was to his dog Suzy. Then we met his mom Clara and dad Dale. Then met brothers Bill and Mike. It was so amazing that they didn't cook anything in their home that I didn't like. He introduced me to some High school friends including Roxane, whom I didn't know will be his future wife. His principle of not going alone on a date to keep his piousness was so impressive. We went to the park to swing on the tires. He loved God and now he is with him. I remember his regular bible study also. There is so much to remember. May God bless him!!
Russell Prickett
01/09/2020
I knew Greg since childhood. He was a man who truly loved both his family and God. His commitment to continually study God's Word impressed me and helped influence me to do the same. May the God of all comfort be with his family and may all of us guard so many positive memories of Greg within our hearts.
Connie Carr Fuglsang
01/08/2020
Greg was a high school classmate, and I remember him as fun, compassionate, and a friend to many. My sympathy to all of his family and friends.