Loren Hammer

Velva

Loren Hammer, 87, Velva, passed away on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at a Velva nursing home.

Loren was born on September 9, 1938 in Minot to George and Anna (Erickson) Hammer. He was raised and educated in Velva, graduating from Velva High School in 1956. Loren was united in marriage with Helen Wangen on December 31, 1965. The couple lived in Mandan for a few years before moving back to Velva.

Loren was very active in serving his community. He was a longtime project engineer for the NDDOT, planted trees for the Soil Conservation District, was an original member of the Velva Ambulance, and was a former mayor of Velva and school board president of Velva Schools. After retiring from the Highway Department, Loren began managing the Cenex C-Store in Velva. He also mowed the grass at the Star City Golf Course in Velva. Loren was very proud that his civic minded nature was passed down to his sons.

Loren enjoyed road trips with his friends, camping with his family and a good conversation with friends old and new. He was well known for his quick wit when adding to light-hearted conversations. He loved being a grandpa and great-grandpa and spending time with loved ones. Loren also had a green thumb and was able to grow just about anything with tenderness and care. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Loren is survived by his sons, Trygve (Kelli) Minot, Michael (Debbie) Velva, Stuart (Shondell) Minot, and Corwin (Tammy) Hammer Myrtle Beach, SC; sisters, Lois Wunderlich and Gail Lehmann; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his beloved pets; as well as many nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; George and Anna Hammer; wife, Helen Hammer; brother, Gerald Hammer; and Brothers-in-law Eugene Heisler, Floyd Wangen, Manley Wangen, Glenn Wunderlich, Kevin Lehmann and Franklin Berg. Sisters-in-law Ivy Heisler and Vaughn Wangen and Nephew Vernon Wangen.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 11 am at Oak Valley Lutheran Church in Velva. The service will be livestreamed for the public to view and can be accessed by going to Oak Valley Lutheran Church Velva, ND – YouTube. Burial will take place at a later date. A visitation will take place on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 from 5- 7 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Souris Valley Care Center or an organization of the donor’s choice. Those wishing to sign the online register and share memories may access the online obituaries section at (www.thompsonlarson.com).

Published by The Minot Daily News, January 30, 2026.