Jack Hamming, 86, passed away July 15, 2009, in Mount Vernon after a brief battle with leukemia. He was born in Lynden to Tom and Grace (Berens) Hamming on Nov. 28, 1922, the fourth of 12 children.

After leaving Lynden, Jack’s family moved to Arlington and finally settled in Oak Harbor. Jack worked at the Oak Harbor Freight Lines for 35 years. He served three years in the Army, in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He earned several awards and commendations for his service to his country including the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.

After returning home he married Agnes Balda on Sept. 9, 1950. She preceded him in death on Nov. 29, 1988.

In his retirement he enjoyed his hobby doing custom farm work. He was actively involved in his church, the First Christian Reformed Church in Mount Vernon, and was very supportive of the Mount Vernon Christian School.

Jack was preceded in death by his sisters Wilma (Ekkelkamp), Betty (Moore) and brother Ken.

He is survived by brothers, Elmer, Tom, Gordon and Maurice; sisters Julia (Terpstra), Harriett (Maginnis), Mary (Fuller) and Connie (Mathews); his two daughters, Tracy (Jay Shepler) and Vicki Ingolfsland; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and the second love of his life, Oray Mikkelsen.

Funeral services were held July 21 at the First Christian Reformed Church, Mount Vernon, with Pastor Donald Lagerwey officiating. Interment followed at Hawthorne Memorial Park, Mount Vernon.

Memorials may be directed to: M.V. Christian School, 820 W. Blackburn Rd., Mount Vernon, 98273. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Kern Funeral Home of Mount Vernon.

You may share memories and offer your condolences to Jack’s family online at www.kernfuneralhome.com.