Winston Hamer

Early in the morning of April 22, 2024, Winston Hamer left this world for his home in Heaven. He was surrounded by his adoring family.

Winston was born Feb. 13, 1932, in Campbell, Neb., to Thomas and Evelyn Hamer. The family moved to Longview, Wash.,, in 1934. He graduated from R.A. Long High School in 1952, where he excelled in carpentry and football.

He worked for AT&T Telephone Company where he remained through many company name changes. Winston retired after 38 years.

In April of 1958, he met Dolores Jessen on a blind date. They were married four months later and recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

Winston was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Brian; and three brothers, Monte, Jim, and Maurice Hamer.

He is survived by a sister, Betty (Carl); his wife, Dolores; two sons, Brad (Jeanne) and John (Heather); a daughter, Susan (Eric) Gann; and a daughter-in-law, Karen Hamer. He was “Papa” to nine grandchildren, Chuck Fleming (Christi), Joshua Hamer (Heidi), Dan Hamer (Elaine), Brittni Jessee (Israel), Kelsie Cottrell (Erick), Madison and Chloe Hamer, Sophie and Gracie Gann, and many great-grandchildren.

God said let there be a gentle soul with a caring heart, encouraging words, a warm laugh, and helping hands - then God created you and made the world smile because of the difference you made in the lives you touched and the special joy you brought.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Winston’s favorite local charities: FISH of Cowlitz County, P.O. Box 135, Longview, WA 98632.

Please join us for a celebration of Winston’s life at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 18 at Rose Valley Friends Church, 1437 Rose Valley Road.