HAMER, Marilyn Elizabeth (McMartin) 1921-2005

HAMER, MCMARTIN, BECK

Posted By: S. Bell
Date: 10/3/2014 at 22:08:46

[Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier, Tuesday, February 1, 2005]

Marilyn Elizabeth McMartin Hamer, of Tucson, Ariz., died peacefully at home on Jan. 26, 2005, following a lengthy battle with myelodysplasia. She donated her body for medical research. A memorial mass will be held later.

Marilyn was born Aug. 2, 1921, in Omaha, Neb. She graduated from Central High and attended Omaha University. She was active in the Omaha Community Playhouse and during World War II worked in a munitions factory assembling artillery shells.

Marilyn married William Tymon "Ty" Hamer of St. Joseph, Mo., on Aug. 24, 1946. They lived in Cedar Falls before moving to Tucson in 1973. Marilyn raised four children and volunteered with the Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, American Cancer Society, Republican Party, and as a docent at the University of Arizona Historical Society.

Marilyn's passions included her commitment to diverse charities. She was proud to help the American Indians through scholarship and Catholic relief efforts. She sponsored children through Children International and supported programs to protect animals in the wilderness. Memorials can be given to St. Joseph's Indian School (Chamberlain, SD 57326), Children International (P.O. Box 219055, Kansas City, MO 64121), or Casa de la Luz Hospice (400 W. Magee Road, Tucson, AZ 85704).

Marilyn is survived by her husband; her son Mark and his wife Marsha of Iowa City; her daughter Katherine "Kitty" Beck and her husband Joel of Tucson; her son David and his wife Phyllis of Tucson; her son Douglas and his wife Julie of Tucson; eight grandchildren and one great-grandson.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents and her sister.