Lamont Edward Hamre

Lamont Edward Hamre, 84, of Clive, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2026 at Wesley Life in Des Moines, IA. A man who brought steady warmth and quiet joy to those around him, Lamont will be honored with a burial at Resthaven Cemetery, 801 19th St., West Des Moines, at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 28, 2026, followed by a celebration of his life from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. at Embassy Club West, 520 Market St.

Born on September 7, 1942, in Crookston, MN, to Lars and Evelyn (Dokken) Hamre, Lamont grew up with a strong sense of duty. After graduating from Mahnomen High School in Mahnomen, MN, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in August 1960, serving aboard the USS Winston and the USS Mount Katmai. Following his service, he furthered his education at Dakota Business College in Fargo, ND.

On November 23, 1963—just a day after the nation mourned the tragic assassination of President Kennedy—he married his high school sweetheart, Kathleen Johnson. Though they initially worried that the somber mood of the country would keep people from attending their ceremony, the church was instead filled to the brim with friends and family eager to celebrate their love. For over 62 wonderful years, they built a deeply devoted life together.

Professionally, Lamont found a fulfilling career as an underwriter for Continental Western Group, ultimately retiring in 2007 after decades of dedicated work. Outside of his career, his vibrant spirit shone through his favorite pastimes. He was an avid, lifelong fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes, Minnesota Vikings, and Minnesota Twins, and he enjoyed listening to classic country legends like Johnny Cash, George Jones, and Loretta Lynn.

Lamont also had a remarkably big heart for animals, cherishing every pet that became part of his family throughout his life—most recently his dog, Tucker.

He will be dearly missed by his wife, Kathleen; his sons, Jeffrey (Carmella) and Michael; his siblings, Ramona Halvorson (Larry) and Merlin; and all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents.

To honor Lamont’s lifelong love for animals, memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa or a favorite local shelter.