Robert Kenneth "Bob" Hammer, Sr., age 73, Joplin, passed away on Thursday, July 28, 2016 at his home after a sudden illness.
Bob was born in New Jersey on November 30, 1942. He was raised in an orphanage from age 3 to 14. He left the orphanage and started a paper route. He attended Patterson Tech where he learned carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and auto mechanics. He always had an interest in sign painting, and started painting signs at the age of 12. He spent time as an apprentice to a sign painter, learning the trade. He taught himself how to free hand pin stripes, and eventually opened his own business, Hammer Signs.
Bob had a love for old cars. He restored many antique cars from start to finish, inside and out, with his own two hands. He built houses for both of his sons, doing most of the work himself, and with the help of his family.
Bob was a one of a kind man who loved his family, and was always willing to help others. He could do ANYTHING he set his mind to. Bob's wisdom and talent will be missed by all who knew him. "I gave it my best shot"
Survivors include his wife, Rosa Hammer, whom he married November 28, 1976 in Prospect Park, New Jersey; sons, Robert K. Hammer, Jr. and Melodee, Mark Hammer and Alicia; grandchildren, Gabriel, Iris, Jackson, George, Rosa Camille, all of Joplin; brothers, Joe Hammer, Paul Hammer, and Kenny Hammer.
Memorial services will be Saturday, August 20, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. in Frisco Church of Webb City with Kervyn Smith officiating.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.
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