Herbert Hammer

Herb lived a life he never could have imagined as a young child growing up in subsidized housing. Born in 1934, he experienced the effects of the Great Depression firsthand. Those early hardships instilled in him a powerful work ethic and determination that would guide him throughout his life.

From a young age Herb was to work. He sold lemonade on street corners, worked in a drug store, pumped gas and sold pennants outside the old Cleveland Municipal Stadium - doing anything he could to earn a dollar. After graduating from high school and without the financial means to attend college, he apprenticed as a sheet metal worker. He followed this career path until 1970 when, at the age of 36 and with a family to support, he made the transition into sales.

Herb's tremendous gift of gab, curiosity, and ability to overcome obstacles propelled his success. He later became a partner and owner of Great Lakes Textiles. By the time of his retirement at age 80, the business had grown into a group of companies with locations across the United States and partnerships overseas. Through his success, Herb was able to travel the world - an opportunity he never dreamed possible as a young boy.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Herb had a lifelong love of performing. He possessed a natural gift for singing and adored Frank Sinatra. His charisma, good looks and larger-than-life personality made him a natural on stage. Though his career unlimitedly took precedence, his passion for performance evolved into a deep appreciation for live theatre.

For more than 40 years, Herb wrote theatre reviews for the Chagrin Valley Times, producing 50 or more reviews annually. He had a particular fondness for musical comedy and delighted in sharing his enthusiasm for the arts with everyone he knew.

Herb was most proud of his wife of 26 years, Lauri and his children, Nancy and Joel, whom he loved deeply. He will be remembered for his resilience, warmth, intellect, humor and boundless energy. His journey - from humble beginnings to a life rich with achievement, creativity, and love - stands as a testament to what determination and passion can accomplish.

Herb's legacy lives on through his family, his work, and the countless lives he touched.

Herb is survived by his wife, Lauri, children Nancy and Joel, grandchildren Andrew (Kaitlin) Schaumburg, Isabelle Hammer, Anna (Christian) Nye, Emmett Hammer and great-grandchildren River, Isla, Aria, Jack, George and Leo.

Funeral services will be on Monday, January 5th at 11am at the Berkowitz Kumin Bookatz Memorial Chapel, 1985 S. Taylor Road, Cleveland Heights. Interment will follow at Lake View Cemetery, 12316 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland. To view this service, please scroll down to the Services section and click of "JOIN LIVESTREAM".

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alzheimer’s Association of Geauga County.

Arrangements were made under the supervision of Berkowitz Kumin Bookatz Memorial Chapel.