Franklin Joseph Hamm
1937-2024
Franklin Joseph Hamm, “Frankie,” age 87, of Medford, passed away Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024 at his home with his wife by his side, and while under the care of Hope Hospice. He was born Aug. 3, 1937 in the town of Little Black to William and Helen (Leonard) Hamm. On Oct. 20, 1956, he married the love of his life, and his “sandbox buddy” since they were kids, Shirley Ann Strebig. They resided in Medford where Frank worked summers on his grandpa’s and uncle’s farms, then at a junk yard for a few years, then at Weather Shield, and then cutting pulp wood. They moved to Milwaukee in 1962 where he worked construction, building bridges, and worked on the metropolitan sewer. They moved back to the Medford area in 1971, and Frank did road work as a roller operator, working his way up to becoming the head of a road crew. In 1981, Frank bought a milk route and hauled milk for 18 years, retiring in 1999.
Frank enjoyed country music, playing guitar and writing songs. He formed the local band “The Country Boys” made up of himself, his two sons and other local musicians. They were booked every weekend playing for dances, weddings, graduation parties and other events. One of his proudest accomplishments was that he recorded his songs in Nashville, Wausau and Marshfield. While recording his record “Truckin’ Old One, Three” in Nashville, he worked with a studio band which included Elvis Presley’s drummer, DJ Fontana.
Frank was a devoted Christian. He knew Christ and was comforted by his faith in Jesus. He enjoyed talks with Pastor and sharing about the miracles he had seen in his lifetime.
He also enjoyed hunting, camping, fishing and spending time with his wife and family.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Shirley Hamm of Medford; three children, Roger (Sally) Hamm of Minn., DeAnn (Mark) Hommel of Westboro, Steve (Nancy) Hamm of Ariz.; a sister, Rose Tom of Medford; five grandchildren, Tanner (Reo) Hamm, Shae Hamm (Connor), Craig (Shandi) Hamm, Kurt Hamm, Ryan Hamm (Jade); three great-grandchildren, Kaylyn, Carter and Oslo Hamm.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Marlene in infancy, Harriet Dahl, and Bill Hamm; sister- in-law, Sylvia Hamm; brothers-in-law, Eudel Dahl and George Tom.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Nov. 1, 2024 at Trinity Lutheran Church, W5334 Dassow Road, Medford, with Rev. Ralph Shorey officiating. Interment will be at a later date at Trinity Lutheran Church Cemetery in Chelsea.
Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m., Friday at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated. Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford is serving the family.
Please visit www.hemerfuneralservice.com to share condolences online.
Paid Obituary 160361
