Loren O. Hammer, 78, Halstad, MN, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, December 18, 2014, at Sanford Health, Fargo, ND.

Loren was born the oldest child to Earl and Eleanore (Larson) Hammer on August 15, 1936, near Fertile, MN. He was baptized at Varness Lutheran Church near Fertile and confirmed at Shelly Marsh River Lutheran Church, Shelly, MN. He grew up in the Red River area on farms. After his school years, he worked on area farms and at the Crystal Sugar plant for many years in Crookston, MN. For health reasons he retired early and lived in Halstad until he was diagnosed with cancer. He was a member of the Halstad Lutheran Church which he attended faithfully every Sunday. Loren enjoyed all things "farming" horses, tractors, trucks, farm machinery, and the crops. He was very grateful for all the kindness and good care he received at the Halstad Living Center for the past three years.

Loren is survived by his four sisters, Sylvia Hammer, Babbitt, MN, Lilly (Richard) Berg, Fargo, ND, Marilyn (Paul) Anderson, Fergus Falls, MN, and Doris (Curt) Hagness, Moorhead, MN; his aunt, Blance (Larson) Orvik; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Arnie and Donald; and one sister, Ruby Hanson.

Funeral: 11:00AM Tuesday, December 23, 2014, at Halstad Lutheran Church, Halstad, MN.

Visitation: One hour before the service at the church.

Burial: Halstad North Cemetery.