It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Frances (Schiele) Hammer, a beloved mother, wife, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, who left this world on February 12, 2025. Mary was born on May 18, 1958, in Bottineau, ND to Albert and Phyllis Schiele. She grew up in Ray, ND and graduated from Ray High School. She met Kevin Duane Hammer in December 1976 and they were united in marriage on August 5, 1978. They had five beautiful children, Amber, Kevin, Kassie, Kenny, and Zach. Mary and Kevin raised their children in Williston, ND where she lived for the remainder of her beautiful life.

Mary was the heart of the Hammer family, a guiding light whose unconditional love and boundless compassion touched everyone she met. She taught those around her to embrace life with an open heart, to love without limits, and to always extend a hand to those in need. She believed in the power of forgiveness, kindness, and the importance of being present for loved ones during times of hardship.

She is survived by her loving husband, Kevin Duane Hammer, and her children: Amber Dawn Hammer, Kevin Lloyd Hammer and his wife Toni Rae (Grauman) Hammer, Kassandra Phyllis (Hammer Helde) Foss and her husband Micheal Ricky James Foss, Kenneth Albert Hammer, and Zachary Michael Hammer. She is also survived by her sisters Viola Victoria (Bachmeier) Walter and Gayla Phyllis (Schiele Leppell) Williams, and her sisters-in-law Betty J Bachmeier and Diane Schiele as well as her brother-in-law Bob Meyers. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Keegan Nathanial Hammer and his girlfriend Linea Peterson, Afton Marie (Elletson) Quale and her husband Jaden Reese Quale, Hayden Duane Hammer and his girlfriend Ruth Crabtree, Samuel James Grauman, Jayden Micheal Alan Foss, and his girlfriend Brynley Peggy Clementich, Jaron Tanner Helde, Lorelai Dawn Helde, Trevin Mychael Hammer, and Quinn Maci Foss. Additionally, she was blessed with great-grandchildren Abel Allyn Joseph Blixt and Noel Dean Oliver Quale.

Mary is now reunited in Heaven with those who went before her, including her parents Albert Joseph Schiele Sr and Phillipena 'Phyllis' (Adam Bachmeier) Schiele, her sisters Eva, Gemma, Audrey, and Rita, her brothers Richard, Albert, William (Bill) and Robert (Bob), and her in-laws, including Don, Leo, and Selma. She will continue to watch over her family with love and warmth.

Mary’s work history spanned various roles, from her years at Walmart, where she worked as a cashier and Customer Service Manager, to her time stocking Hallmark cards to working summer fireworks stands and babysitting. She also waitressed, worked for Beunavista Media Marketing, and was a Pink Zebra sales rep. However, her most profound role was that of a devoted caregiver for her eldest daughter, Amber. Mary was always dedicated to her work and took pride in everything she did. Her true life’s work was being there for her children and grandchildren, shaping them into the best versions of themselves. She was deeply involved in scouting, serving as an active adult leader within the BSA, Venture Scouts, and Cub Scouts. Within her scouting leadership, Mary earned the distinguished honors of the District Award of Merit and the Silver Beaver Award. One of her greatest joys in scouting was serving as the Cub Scout Day Camp Director for the Northern Lights Council, a role she cherished.

Her passions and hobbies revolved around the simple joys of life—sharing coffee with friends, camping whenever and wherever she could (often with Kevin setting up the camper for her to enjoy for weeks on end), and staying up into the late hours visiting with loved ones. Above all, she found joy in watching her children and grandchildren grow.

Mary’s absence leaves an unfillable void, but her love and wisdom will forever remain in our hearts. May she rest in peace, knowing she was deeply loved.

Memorial Contribution