Lawrence Edward Hammer

Lawrence Edward Hammer, a master craftsman of Chicago cinema, a decorated veteran, and a loving father and grandfather, passed away recently. He left behind a legacy as rich and enduring as the stories he brought to life in his work.

Born in North Dakota to Floyd and Irene Hammer, Lawrence grew up in a large, lively household alongside his six siblings, Diana, Lloyd, Michael, Steve, Mary and Debbie. From an early age, he embodied a strong work ethic, a sharp intellect, and a commitment to excellence.

Lawrence enlisted in the United States Army in 1963, serving honorably until 1967 within the elite Army Security Agency (ASA). He was assigned to the Defense Institute’s Russian Branch and was awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and earned the Sharpshooter Marksmanship Badge. The discipline and focus instilled during his time in the service remained a part of his character throughout the rest of his life.

Following his time in the military, Lawrence returned to civilian life with a passion for building. He began working as a lineman, installing steel transmission lines across Illinois, including the vital tower lines along Interstate 90 for H&S Electric. These early years reflected the hands-on skill and dedication that would remain a hallmark of his career.

Committed to continued learning, Lawrence graduated from the College of DuPage, earning his bachelor's degree from the University of Texas, and ultimately obtaining an MBA from the University of Chicago. His business acumen led him to manage an ExxonMobil manufacturing plant in Frankfort, Illinois. However, Lawrence’s passion was with the arts and the creative community of Chicago. In the 1970s, he and his first wife, Susan Davis, earned considerable acclaim when they successfully brought the avant-garde dance company Pilobolus to Chicago’s Athenaeum Theater.

As residents of Chicago’s South Shore neighborhood, he and Susan were deeply committed to community revitalization. They invested in South Shore by purchasing and remodeling a multi-unit apartment building, becoming early contributors to neighborhood redevelopment. Lawrence served as the chair of South Shore Entertainment, producing a weekend of events that drew thousands and helped strengthen the community’s cultural identity. In 1977, he was the driving force of a community action that saved the historic South Shore Country Club from demolition. Thanks in part to this leadership, the site was preserved by the Chicago Park District and thrives today as the South Shore Cultural Center.

In 1989, Lawrence found his ultimate professional calling when he joined the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 476. For decades he was a behind-the-scenes mainstay of Chicago's film and television industry. Lawrence brought his ingenuity and tireless work ethic to the golden era of Chicago production, working on the crews of iconic Chicago-based productions including Home Alone, Backdraft, The Package, Chain Reaction, Love Jones, What Women Want, and Chicago Fire. Lawrence was a proud member of Local 476 and was honored to be an elected union trustee. He was recently recognized for his loyalty and service with Local 476’s prestigious Gold Membership Card.

For all his professional achievements, Lawrence’s most treasured role was that of father and grandfather. He was a deeply caring and fiercely loyal father to his children, Blake, Julia, and Alex. He anchored their lives with a steady presence, and a quiet, reassuring strength. He was a dedicated grandfather sharing his endless love, pride, and joy with his grandchildren.

Lawrence was reunited in rest with his beloved second wife, the talented actress Judith Easton, who passed away last year, and with whom he shared a beautiful life rooted in a love of the arts.

Lawrence is survived by his devoted children, Blake, Julia, and Alex and a beautiful legacy carried on by his many grandchildren. He is deeply missed and will live on in their hearts.