---

JOHN HAMMAR MEMORIAL

Departed Earth - November 10, 1999

He stood for justice for all

On Wednesday, September 22, 1999, Patrick Crusade member, John Hammar [age 62], was in an auto accident, on his way home to North Carolina from a CERJ Board meeting in Vermont. With him was Patrick Crusade member, Heather [from California], who sustained a broken collar bone and survived. John sustained multiple serious injuries, fought the good fight and finally it was time for God take him home. What follows is the notification of his death by former Patrick Crusade member, Candyce Hawk, tributes to John by those who loved and honored him while he walked this earth, and links to other memorials prepared in John's honor.

    May he and his good works always remain in our memories, for he always provided

-----Original Message-----From: cj Date: Wednesday, November 10, 1999 9:33 PMSubject: John HammarOur friend and comrade, John, made a decision today. His energy is dispersed throughout the universe, timeless, and always with us, continuing his mission to 'Save the World'. At 2:30 PM EST John left his body to wander among us. We must all realize and fully support this decision which our friend has made for we do him and ourselves a disservice if we are not fully open. John will continue to speak to us and to share his creativity with us. The challenge here is for us to listen and to communicate back to him. In the timeless nature of the spirit there are no limitations of the physical plane. Our egos fight this truth but it remains, nonetheless, the eternal truth. John knows this and we must all realize fully that the decision he has made is a most honorable one.

It's a rare thing in life to actually have the opportunity and the honor to know a hero. We have all had this honor and continue to have this honor in knowing John and listening to his instruction. I will be listening intently for I know that John has things to share with me in this timeless, limitless, perfect state of being. Please, all of you, listen with me and hear his truth.

Dottie (John's wife) is a wonderful creature! I am honored to have come to know her spirit through my association with John and his 30 year dream, which is Work, Inc.

I will update you with additional information as it comes in. Be happy and work toward universal change; work toward the equality of all; that is John's dream.

Candy Hawk

-----Original Message-----
From: john hammar
Date: Monday, August 09, 1999 9:39 PM
Subject: crusade

...if we can find fault with just about everything we will surely hit the crazy bone of just about everyone in this country and THEN people will have the feeling collectively that something is wrong. And we will highlight those wrongs. Eventually the lawmakers will be singing change...

john
WORK, INCORPORATED seeks your incoming stamps for third world
relief and economic development. For more information or to send stamps:
third world stamp Co., 212 old mckinney rd
Mt. Airy, N. C. 27030-8628 Join us at thirdworldstampco@onelist.com
check us out at www.telusplanet.net/public/erin6/twsc.htm
visit the P.A.T.R.I.C.K web site http://www.patrickcrusade.org

Execute Justice, Not People!

"The world is a dangerous place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it." - Albert Einstein

From: "Taoss"

Subject: Re: John Hammar

Date: Wed, 10 Nov 1999 23:58:00 -0500

I'm sitting here staring at this computer screen, wondering what to write and realizing that I don't really "have" to write anything at all - but I am compelled to write anyway. Many of us knew John Hammar through e-mails and ICQ. Some of us met him personally, as I did. And when we met him we had our immediate opinions of him. An activist, a lover of human beings, the earth, the environment and God. At least that was my first impression of John. He was easy to talk to, held a mediator kinship with several who would find themselves up-in-arms over something or another...some crisis in their lives...and John would write to them with exactly the words that would sooth their hearts to help them carry on for another day. That was the soft and kindly side of John Hammar. The business side and the cocky side were of the material world. He understood these things were essential to the physical plane. His ideas were far-reaching, ahead of their time in a way. They were unique - they were "John Hammar".

I know a lot of you are grieving deeply that John will no longer be writing e-mails and you will miss him greatly. So will I. I never did meet or speak to his wife, Dottie, but I know she's a fine woman because John spoke of her so lovingly when I met with him in North Carolina in 1998. He was the first Patrick Crusade member I had met in person and this was thrilling to both of us. We met at the IHOP Restaurant in Gastonia, NC, and we must have drank 10 gallons of coffee while we spoke of our plans, ideas, and what's wrong with this world. He believed in what Patrick Crusade was setting for its goal - the primary goal of opening eyes. He believed in Work, Inc., the workings of which I never truly understood - but then economic wizardry was never my "thing" - but it was John's.

In Native American tradition [as well as the traditions of many cultures on earth], John's passing shall be honored with reverence, yet it shall be a joyful thought that he is on a different journey - one we cannot understand until it is our time to pass from earth to "somewhere" else....doing "something" else. We keep John alive by remembering his good heart, his accomplishments, his skills, his quirks, his laugh, his love for all of us, and the way he comforted each of you who knew him well.

There is a poem that presently comes to mind that I think fits this occasion. It goes like this:

Blessings and Love to All,

Sherry Swiney (Taoss)

-----Original Message-----
From: Heather

Date: Thursday, November 11, 1999 1:25 PM
Subject: Re: [patrickcrusade] Re: John Hammar
 

That was a beautiful message about John. Thank you for sharing. Please let me know what I can do to help you and the P.A.T.R.I.C.K. Crusade as I know it was very dear to John's heart. I've been with you and praying and writing letters and emails and I will do more - if there's a pressing need please let me know.
 
 

I believe I will be able to transfer the logo over to the buttons for you for your conference in June. I could make magnets instead or in addition to. This is ButtonInk, one of the new projects we had started on my visit.
 

It's important to me to carry on his work as best as I can.
 

Heather
 

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-----Original Message-----
From: cj
Date: Wednesday, November 10, 1999 10:43 PM
Subject: Dedicated to John Hammar and his work

I have felt the need to change my website in honor of John and my feelings for this wonderful man. I truly believe that John is a hero and his work must continue. I also believe that he will be here to help us. We must remain silent, sit in the quiet and hear him speak to us. I will be listening and waiting......

<http://users.owt.com/cjhawk/>

Candy
--
WORKERS FEDERATION
+++++THE BILL OF RIGHTS... (Void where prohibited by law)+++++
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The worst sin towards our fellow creatures is not to hate them,
but to be indifferent to them. That is the essence of inhumanity.
--George Bernard Shaw
 

ÎÏÐÑÒÍÎÏÐÑÒÍÎÏÐÑÒÍÎÏÐÎÏÐÑÒÎÏÐÑÒÍÎ

-----Original Message-----
From: cj
Date: Thursday, November 11, 1999 1:54 PM
Subject: John Hammar Tribute

This tribute is written by Marla Mazoch, a friend and co-worker in Work, Inc. with John Hammar. Please feel free to distribute this as you wish.
 

Candy Hawk

_______________________
Tribute to our Friend, John Hammar
Once someone passes out of the world of the physical, and into the spiritual world, we can never experience physically being with them again. So we can never truly experience them in the way that we knew. This is the part where I believe our grief comes in. However, we can always experience John and have him share in our lives by keeping his memory alive and by realizing that spiritual beings are not limited to physical properties and they are more with us than ever before! John is no longer confined to a body as we still are. He is no where and everywhere....all at the same time.
 

I have tried hard to find the best way in which to honor John and I feel like the best thing we can all do is share our memories of John with each other. John affected everyone he touched and I know that in hearing others recite their experiences with John it is comforting to my soul. So, that is what I am going to do....share with you my precious memories and impressions of John.
 

Coincidentally, I came across something last night that I think John would find amusing and I want to share it with you all. Anyone who knew John knew what a penny pincher he could be about some things. So, in that spirit, I offer you this quote from Woody Allen: Death should not be seen as the end but as a very effective way to cut down expenses. Somehow, reading that, thinking of John right off the bat and being able to smile made me feel better. We will always have those positive memories of John and NOTHING can take that away. It also made me realize that John still has his beautiful power to make me smile. He was and always will be a bright light on all of the people's lives he touched.
 

One of the things that always amazed me about John is that he liked to say he was NOT a leader. I have to smile and shake my head when I hear that because John was one of the STRONGEST leaders I have ever known. What are the actions and attributes of a leader? What is it that makes him different from others? What made John a leader? Here are the answers I have come up with. A leader is always full of praise; A leader learns to use the phrases "thank you" and "please" on his way to the top; A leader is always growing; A leader is possessed with his dreams.; A leader launches forth before success is certain.; A leader is not afraid of confrontation.; A leader talks about his own mistakes before talking about someone else's.; A leader is a person of honesty and integrity; A leader has a good name; A leader makes others better.; A leader is quick to praise and encourage the smallest amount of improvement.; A leader is genuinely interested in others.; A leader looks for opportunities to find someone doing something right.; A leader takes others up with him.; A leader responds to his own failures and acknowledges them before others have to discover and reveal them.; A leader never allows murmuring-from himself or others.; A leader is specific in what he expects.; A leader holds accountable those who work with him.; A leader does what is right rather than what is popular. A leader is a servant. John Hammar was and still is a leader.

Theodore Roosevelt.

Dare Mighty Things
 

"In the battle of life, it is not the critic who counts; nor the one who points out how the strong person stumbled, or where the doer of a deed could have done better. The credit belongs to the person who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; who does actually strive to do deeds; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotion, spends oneself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement; and who at worst, if he or she fails, at least fails while daring greatly. Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those timid spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat."

John not only dared to do mighty things....John DID do mighty things. John got into the arena, rolled up his sleeves and worked hard for what he believed in. John's life was definitely shorter than we expected, but he did, in those years, what most never accomplish in an entire lifetime. John walked his talk. He LIVED what he believed in and I think that is so honorable. I admire him most for this.

However, if I had to pick only one thing about John to tell others about, I would tell them about how he loved other people and how he always....and I do mean always....was ready and waiting with a helping hand. One never even had to ask for John's help because he was ready and willing to give it as soon as he saw the need. No matter what was going on he would make time for people. I was going to say that John made time for the people he loved, but that isn't accurate either. John made time and gave effort to ANY person who would benefit from John's help. He was not selective or judgmental of those who came to him, or to those to whom John offered assistance. Martin Luther King Jr. once said "I believe that what self-centered men have torn down, other-centered men can build up." John lived that statement every day of his life. He spent countless hours and had infinite energy where his gift of activism was concerned.
 

Truly no words I could ever write would do John Hammar justice. He is simply one in a million and I feel so blessed to have had him in my life. He was kind and funny, smart and quick witted. He was above all things and idea machine! That man had more ideas than most have thoughts! He was charming and social and loved people. When I look at pictures of John that are recent, I smile and think that is what Prince Charming must have looked like at 62. He was full of life and the energy I felt...as did others.....was just enormous. John filled our hearts with his wonderful loving and positive energy.
 

John made a lot of differences in so many lives. The calls, email, etc. that we have all been receiving since his accident and death have just been overwhelming. And even those of us who knew John, are still awestruck at how many people he touched from all over the world. Everyone has a kind word to say about John and all the stories seem to be about John's wonderful kindness, compassion and empathy towards others and how he helped so many people. John helped many people by giving advice, he helped many by helping them financially, he helped others find resources they did not know about otherwise. He listened to our problems, he cared about how we felt, and all he required in return was our love and motivation. He gave of himself in the true sense of giving.....and he loved the same way. Unconditionally. As the famous Hellen Keller once said: "The best and the most beautiful things in life cannot be seen or even touched....they must be felt with the heart." John Hammar was such a classic example of this statement.

In dealing with my own grief and emotions,  I have been making the mistake of allowing my mind to go into the "John is gone" mode. That is not reality though. He is NOT gone. This I know. He is everywhere. John is nowhere in particular and everywhere all at once. The thing is, you and I'll be with John soon too. You may not have noticed it, but you are already getting closer to John than ever before. Each moment is a step taken. Each breath is a page turned. Each day is a mile marked, a mountain climbed. You are closer to being with John than you've ever been. Before you know it, your appointed arrival time will come; you'll descend the ramp and enter the City. You'll see faces that are waiting for you. You'll hear your name spoken by those who love you. And, maybe, just maybe - in the back, behind the crowds - John will be waiting and when finally you make your way through the crowd to John, he will smile his wonderful smile and....applaud.
 
 

Dear friend, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done for so many others. I feel blessed and honored to have been a part of your physical life and look very much forward to being a part of your spiritual life. I know that you have not left us and that you will be watching and guiding us like a bright star in the sky. We will continue to honor you infinitely continuing your work and remembering that in your death so many people were brought together and will continue lifelong friendships. These friendships are gifts from you and until just now I didn't realize what the intention behind that gift was: You had to do it! It is going to take that many people to continue all the work you did single-handed!

Fare well on this journey John, and we'll see you soon. We love you.

Marla Mazoch

-----Original Message-----

From: Lil Wildflower

Date: Thursday, November 11, 1999 3:15 PM

Subject: The Warrior our Brother John

While sitting here remembering all that we had shared, you and I my Brother I went through some of the countless messages that I had received from you. Our talks of the rights of our people, Native Americans, of what you were doing and how we could help one another and of our plight to bring Michael "Mucsuss" home. It is strange for I delete many messages, but yours (smile) I did not. On 9/2/99 after I had e-mailed you of our victory where Grandfather had had the 25 year to life sentence vacated, you sent me this, which I am now sharing with the rest of our family, for it was you John, beloved brother and who you are. It was titled "No Words"
 

" No words can describe how happy I am for you and Michael. The candle still gets lit every evening getting smaller--have to hurry him home!!! " John
 

Yes no words can describe you my Brother. We spoke of the injustices to our people the Native Americans, we discussed petitions on this issue. You gave me strength when you were feeling I truly needed it. You never faltered at any time my Brother. You indeed were and still are a true "Warrior". We are never guaranteed how long we will walk this earth, nothing in life is guaranteed, but we do know we will dance around the fire with Grandfather the Creator when we all join you and our Ancestors and the Angels. We will meet again in many ways. Each time I lite this white candle I will know you are there beside me, for yes my candle for Michael is lit every evening as well until he is here in our home as we agreed you and I my brother. We are not suppose to be sad because you are with Grandfather walking in peace and harmony. So I shall try not to be sad, I shall lite the candle as promised every evening until Mucsuss is here, and you shall lite it with me my Brother.
 

As spoken between us before, I shall not give up this fight we are fighting my Brother. Yes we spoke at one time that you felt that Grandfather would not have you on this earth to do all you wanted to do, I remember that so vividly, for it is as if you knew. And I promised you that I would not falter in doing what Grandfather has chosen both Mucsuss and I to do, and I will not falter. We spoke of the spiritual bond that we shared, of your undying relentless love for Dottie and all your family, all of us. You were getting tired and we spoke of that my beloved brother, for how well I too knew that feeling. There is so much we shared and spoke of as if we had been united for many many moons you, Mucsuss and I. I will try to continue to share with our family here of the many things that we shared to give them the courage and the strength that we all need now, for we miss you deeply. I know you are here with me my brother, I know you have not left any of us, you are only walking this planet to make sure we are all all right. Your spirit is here and shall be with us until we meet again to dance around the fire together with Grandfather our Creator. You walk with many Warriors now my brother, and that is as it should be, for you are a Warrior. A Warrior for all convicts for we know we have been there done that. Yes my heart is heavy, but I shall rejoice and thank Grandfather for allowing me to know you, to be called your Lil Sister, Lil Wildflower. I will rejoice in the wisdom, love and strength you bestowed upon me when I needed it during this battle and I will rejoice in being honored to have you call me "Lil Sister". Walk in peace and in harmony my Brother and thank you, for now my heart is not as heavy for you are here and I am smiling with love as I send this to all our family.

" He walks with Grandfather the Creator, as he watches over us, his family with much love" I still miss you my Brother! Lil Wildflower
 
 

-----Original Message-----
From: Anne Rose-Pierce
To: Patrick Crusade <patrickcrusade@onelist.com>
Date: Thursday, November 11, 1999 4:58 AM
Subject: [patrickcrusade] my friend, John Hammar
 

I wanted to post something to list about what John meant to me, but my mind has been blank since I read Candy's post earlier. I've been working on the newsletter, and finally realized I just needed to copy what I had written in my column.

John has been a tremendous advocate for human rights around the globe. He doesn't exclude any group or individual from these rights. His calm, common sense answers, good humor and good nature have made him a valued confidante of cyber-friends all over. I have asked John for advice many times, and think of him as a mentor. If Oregon and North Carolina were closer together geographically, I would have sat at the hospital with Dorothy, Susan and the other family members, and I hope that John knew that I was there in spirit several times each day.

When I began buying "stock" in the Brattleboro property ( a very small purchase ) I teased John that it took a socialist to turn me into a capitalist. I collected used stamps for work inc. with enthusiasm, and never walked by an office garbage can without checking envelopes. He just had a way of involving us all in his projects. Even more remarkable though, no matter how busy he was, he always had time to answer the many off-list posts I sent him about the work I was trying to do, or to just say, "It'll be all right, Anne"

Despite the way our country is going, I still love it, and I guess the best way to sum up how much I admire and respect John is to relay just how serious Dark Frye and I were about his candidacy for President. Personally, I think he would have filled the office of President the way school children think of it, not the way adults have come to accept it. I would have liked voting for him.
 

This is longer than I meant for it to be, I just felt I needed to post it.
 

God Bless Us All,

Anne

-----Original Message-----
From: Dark Fyre
Date: Friday, November 19, 1999 7:31 AM
Subject: my tribute to John

Taoss,

Its a little late, but better than never. Below is my tribute to John Hammar that I had written up for my own little support group. I hope you'll put it up with the rest. I still miss John quite a bit, his loss has left a big hole in my heart.

Blessings,
Fyre

miss John.

It hit me yesterday as I got up and got my coffee and sat down at my computer that I would never have 'John Time' again the way it had been. You see, John and I talked a lot, mostly online. We spent many a morning conversing, or should I say, arguing. John and I argued almost all the time.

John exasperated me. He annoyed the hell out of me. He made me sit here and tug at my hair and once even bang my head against the wall. In short, our relationship was a stormy one. But I felt I learned so much from him. He intrigued me, because he had ideas that didn't fit this world, any more than mine did. He was a horse of a different color, but that color was ever changing. John was not an innovator, really. He was a visionary, but he didn't invent...he reinvented. He was a pacifist, but not in a lay down and let people walk all over me way. He had the ability to take something that others had abandoned, and make it into something better than it had been. John was a challenge. He loved you, but he was always wanting to 'fix it' for you. This made me nuts. I would say 'John, I can do it myself, honestly.' and John would say 'But I want to do it, really." And he did. He wanted to show you that what he believed was something we could all have, that if we each, in our own lives, took his philosophy...that unnecessary waste is a sin, that we should think before we toss out, that we should rehab and reuse what we could, then all together we could change the world. This extended to people, too. John never once said of someone 'That person is impossible.' Even with people who made him angry (and John was no saint, he did get mighty angry sometimes, especially if he felt he wasn't being heard) he would work with that person, because he wanted unity, he knew the greater injustice out there, and what it could do, and he realized that people in this movement, a strange lot we all might be...but it was us against injustice.

I miss him, plain and simple. I miss his wit, his baiting and his cheery 'hello!' I miss his gentle voice, and I miss his sense of fun, and enthusiasm, with every project he ever undertook. I miss being his campaign manager. Maybe some of you didn't know, but John was seriously going to attempt a presidential run, and I had started to reach out to some organisations on his behalf. It grew from a tiny thing into something we believed would really have worked, because I believe anything John set out to do got done! I went out for a walk yesterday through the park. It was chilly out, and lovely with a blue sky full of white clouds. And I thought of John. I said 'Why in the hell did you do this, how could you have left us?!" And as I sat there, I knew in some way he was laughing and saying something like 'well, where do you think I am, anyway?' And the message came 'You'll all be better now, than you ever were...this is not impossible." And I guess it's not, he's right. But I sure miss his physical presence and energy, his wonder at things, and just everything that was John, even when we were spitting and angry with one another, even when we were loggerheads. I suppose it will be there again, that Fate, which I believe in so firmly, is incapable of leaving us high and dry in the end. This is school, we are here to learn, and John's lessons go on, perhaps, just differently. I was lucky to know him, I was lucky to have him touch my world, I was lucky to have the challenges and the arguments, even when I was screaming, because challenges make us grow, evolve, and perhaps, see in a way we weren't able to before. John once told me the only sin he really ever understood was waste...the waste of paper, the waste of buildings, the waste of life, and of energy. He was the ultimate recycler, and his vision was a wondrous thing. I think he's bestowed us with something of it, in what we have in our hands, our legacy from him, and the ability, perhaps, to realize that nothing is ever really hopeless, so long as we do our best and believe in it.
 
 

----- Original Message -----
From: Kathy Tadlock To: Candyce Hawk Sent: Wednesday, November 10, 1999 10:13 PM

Subject: emotional

CJ, thank you for keeping us informed about John. I called Dottie the other day. I am so devastated by the events of Monday's trip to Elko, NV and the news about John.. also my physical pain, I am just not able to get my letters up yet.. but will try to do it quickly.

I will ask Gary to put something on my site for John, too. He was a wonderful man and is a beautiful spirit. At some of my worst times he was always there for me.. he even told me to consider him a part of my extended family.. he never wanted me to feel alone. I love him dearly and am not sure why someone like him was chosen to leave so soon.

Would you please give me your snail mail, I am putting together a list of names and addresses to be ready in case I have to go to jail. I will be sentenced on Nov 23.

Thank you, Kathy in Idaho

-----Original Message-----
From: Beverly Miller
Date: Thursday, November 11, 1999 4:41 PM
Subject: [drinlove] To all concerned--Our Friend John

Our Friend, John Hammer was always saying interesting and funny things to cheer everyone. He lived a very caring and rather unusual Life. All of us who knew him, appreciated his generous, concerned and willingness to help, manner. He will live in our hearts and minds as a Soul who was with us, giving, advising and making Life a bit more interesting. He was a unique Being and will be fondly held as a great Friend forever a part of us. His work will continue and we know he will be there for it's continuance. We give Thanks to have known John Hammer.
 
 

Prayers for Dottie and all of John's family. Peace-Love-Prayers. God be with all of us. Beverly Miller
 
 

-----Original Message-----
From: Jane Doe
Date: Friday, November 12, 1999 12:43 AM
Subject: Re: John Hammar

Here's what I'd like to say about John: "What a man! If the world were filled with John Hammars, 85% of the world's population would not have to live in such struggle. I know that wherever he's gone, he'll be welcome and most needed. I will sorely miss this beautiful soul. He didn't live to see the total accomplishment of his dream, but in his tireless efforts to help and save the oppressed and downtrodden of this earth, John has saved his soul and I know that he lives on, forever working for the betterment of his fellow beings."

-----Original Message-----
From: Judiann
Date: Friday, November 12, 1999 1:31 AM
Subject: Re: [patrickcrusade] my friend, John Hammar

I thought John was a wonderful person. It seemed that when I was down he always had the words to make me want to continue in our fight. He also had a wonderful sense of humor. He never once chided me for wanting to talk. He always answered my e-mail even if it were trivial. When I needed help he was there. I thought he was the smartest person I ever met and I marveled at the work he did. I never met him in person but, it never ceased to amaze me at the projects he started and finished. I regret that the telephone company we all wanted to start was not gotten off the ground. I know he would have found away for prisoner's and their families to have a less expensive phone bill. Most of all I was always amazed that when we talked he would tell me to be myself. To not let the problems make me less a person. Too continue with my fight against the aggression of not only the incarcerated, but people in general. I truly think John was a great man, and where ever he has gone, that he will continue to fight for all people and someway make us know how to continue with this also. He will be sorely missed. Thank you for asking me to write my feelings for this great man.

Love,
Judiann

-----Original Message-----
From: The International Bannister Foundation
Date: Friday, November 12, 1999 9:05 AM
Subject: [ibfmembers] John Hammer
 

Dear Members & Friends of The International Bannister Foundation
 

I am sitting here in awe at what to say about our Area Manager for North Carolina, John Hammer.
 

He helped so many different groups and individuals, he kept us on our toes with discussions, I never heard him say a nasty word about anyone, a difference of opinion, yes, but never took anything or gave out anything in a personal manner.
 

John will be sadly missed by me personally, and our foundation, and I cannot express by how much, but I am sure he will be watching over all of us in our attempts to stop the death penalty and help regain human rights, I am also sure he will guide us as our guardian angel to move forward.
 
 

In kindness
Tom & Pamela Rodger (Co-founder's)
The International Bannister Foundation

-----Original Message-----
From: Glenn Larkin
Date: Friday, November 12, 1999 4:42 PM
Subject: [jeff-dicks] Re: John Hammer

De Profundis

It is with profound sadness that I heard of John Hammer's death. We were supposed to meet in Charlotte the week after the accident. With so few men of good will, his input will be sadly missed.
 

Although I only knew him via e-mail, I sensed a real dedication to the job and a desire to better his fellow man less fortunate than he was.
 
 

Glenn M Larkin

-----Original Message-----
From: REINER STENSGAARD GOLDAU
Date: Friday, November 12, 1999 7:03 PM
Subject: [ibfmembers] Sv: John Hammer

Our love and prayers are there! There are no words who can take away what is so heavy, but may God hold around the family in this time,

Dorte, Reiner, Mathilde
Jesper and Lydia

-----Original Message-----
From: Kay Lee
Date: Friday, November 12, 1999 8:38 PM
Subject: Re: [patrickcrusade] Re: [jeff-dicks] John Hammar Tribute

...Kay Lee
 

--- Linda Chianone wrote:

Marla,

What a beautiful and loving tribute to John. I have been sitting here these last few days trying to decide how to put into words what I am feeling but words don't come. I thank you for the words that express all I feel and so much more. John was indeed a leader though as you say he always denied it. He offered many words of encouragement to me throughout the time I knew him. I have been blessed as we all have been blessed by the presence of John Hammer in my life.
 

Linda

-----Original Message-----
From: Lil Wildflower
Date: Friday, November 12, 1999 11:28 PM

Brothers & Sisters,

I am truly blessed for I have a wonderful sister a true Warrior who walks with me so closely as I travel this path I have been on. She has come up with the most wonderful tribute to our Brother John as you can read in this post I am forwarding. It is for all to plant in the spring, a yellow rose bush in honor of our brother. Like my sister I too shall be planting a yellow rose bush come spring and I am also going to ask Mucsuss if they can plant one there so our brother can be close to all those he has fought so long and hard for. I am also with my sister permission forwarding our posts that we shared as well. Again, my beloved sister is a gift to me, a gift from Grandfather the Creator, she is truly of pure heart and truly a Warrior, Saltara, our Grandmother's daughter.
 

With love and respect
Lil Wildflower

-----Original Message-----
From: Pamela Walker-Davis
To: Lil Wildflower
Date: Friday, November 12, 1999 1:02 PM
 

My sister With lots of joy we will have yellow roses planted everywhere. Why don't you send this out from both of us... to everyone... I would love to hear your words in that post... you may share our words and feeling's between us if you wish. Do you realize that we are also planting yellow roses in even sending this out... well we are. Be sure and say that if possible even if you live in an apartment plant yellow roses somewhere. Maybe some can even be planted at the prison's... then John will be close for them as well. I'm going to ask if we can do that at my beloved's place

....
I'm so glad you are feeling better my sister.... those words that I wrote were a gift to both of us from Grandfather.

With love and yellow roses
Grandmother's daughter, Saltara

-----Original Message-----
From: Lil Wildflower
To: Pamela Walker-Davis
Date: Thursday, November 11, 1999 12:56 AM

My Sister,

Brother John Hammer left at 2:30 PM EST to go home to Grandfather, and I know I am suppose to be happy as it is our ways, but my heart is so heavy and I have just cut a strand of my hair to honor a "warrior" who fought a valiant battle and has now gone home to be with our people. My heart is sad my sister and so heavy.

Love Lil Wildflower

-----Original Message-----
From: Lil Wildflower
To: Pamela Walker-Davis
Date: Friday, November 12, 1999 11:55 AM

Yes My Sister, lets plant this rose bush for our brother in the spring, as said a "yellow rose bush". I like you felt a very heavy heart but this to has passed for I know that our brother is walking with Grandfather across many plains and has such a wonderful vision of all and will guide us in what we must do. I know that our brother would not want us to be sad for that is who he was and we shall miss him because of who he was and what he gave to all of us. Mucsuss called last nite and we spoke of this and he said "we will take care of this on Sunday at the Inipi. We will pray to Grandfather for all, for our brother is with Grandfather now and he is walking in peace and harmony with Grandfather and our Ancestors. He told me let the tears come Lil Wildflower then be happy that your paths crossed here in this lifetime, for you will meet again when we all go home to Grandfather." Also, all our Brothers send their love, prayers to all of us. Yes we were blessed to have been so close to our Brother, and I know he is watching over all of us, so we shall move forward and continue to do Grandfathers work as he guides us knowing that our Brother John walks with his hand in Grandfathers. Thank you for the compliment in as far as my being a warrior, I am honored by such a gift coming from you my sister. Yes lets share the planting of the yellow rose bush in the spring with all. Do you want me to send this out to all?
 

With love, tears and laughter,
You're Sister, Walk in Peace
Lil Wildflower

Pamela Walker-Davis wrote:

As you cry your tears of grief my sister they will turn to joy for the release of his pain is now gone. As we both know we can still listen for his wisdom - he has joined the other ancients and will now depart his wisdom, he can see the whole truth across the plains - he can assist us now as he was never able to do before - he is holding the hand of Grandfather. We can now do even greater things for the people with his help. My heart is heavy and I also have cut my hair and gave it to the wind to be carried to where it is needed. I will plant a rose bush in the spring in honor of John - maybe everyone should do that - it is in many ways just like him :) A yellow rose bush because of our yellow ribbon program. I send you hugs my sister - and know that you are a warrior and my sister even warrior cry at the passes of a loved one - we also honor their memory in this way. Our tears are for the memories and for the empty place in our heart that they had filled. So let us share with everyone our idea of planting a yellow rose bush for John this spring - what do you say? with love and tears and laughter and peace.
 

Grandmother's daughter, Saltara

-----Original Message-----
From: Ellen
Date: Saturday, November 13, 1999 2:31 PM

In December of 1998 I purchased my first computer and began my search for prisoners rights groups to join. Somehow I found PATRICK CRUSADE and sent an e-mail on how to join. My computer did not have the right time or date but somehow John saw the e-mail and responded. Thank God! He was my eyes on the computer and taught me so many things to view and ways to help. I cannot throw away a used stamp or see stamps on an envelope without thinking of him. All the people in my office know to save stamps for me to give to " the man in North Carolina", every week I come in to work and there are used stamps on my desk! I have a big box of them now I was waiting to send. He gave me advice that would have cost me thousands of dollars because he really loved and cared about "people", he could always find a way to help. He wrote letters to the prison in support of my husband John, to help and support John in his quest to receive a pardon , always able to "console me" during the worst of times. I found myself anxious to get his e-mails as he taught me ways to reach out and really help those who needed help, bringing out emotions I never realized I had. I felt a physical sickness when I heard of his accident and kept him in my mind, heart, and prayers since that time.
 
 

Although I never met John Hammar, he changed my life by setting the example of real love and concern for his fellow man. He was a "doer" not just a "talker"! There is an empty place inside of me because of the loss of his physical words and works but I will always remember him lovingly and with gratitude.

Ellen S. Alexander 11/13/99

-----Original Message-----
From: shirley dicks
Date: Saturday, November 13, 1999 6:39 PM

Was so sorry to hear about John, he was our coordinator as well as Laurie for NC. I want to extend our deepest sympathy to all the family of Johns as he will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate to have met him. He was a wonderful human being who worked for all the underdogs, and did fantastic work. I know he is with God right now, and maybe talking to Jeff. I'm really sorry for their loss.

Shirley Dicks

I have put something about John Hammar on our web site at http://members.xoom.com/medicalfound/index.html go and click on johns name for the reflections pages.

-----Original Message-----
From: Lisa Berg
Date: Saturday, November 13, 1999 9:23 PM
Subject: [jeff-dicks] Re: John Hammar

Shirley,

What you say is so true. I just wanted to say too that though I didn't know him well, he did help me through some ugly times, giving me encouragement and support unsolicited when I needed it most. He was also a gentleman. I will miss him too.

Lisa

-----Original Message-----
From: John V. Wilmerding
Date: Sunday, November 14, 1999 6:02 AM
Subject: John Hammar Is Gone!

John Hammar passed from this existence on Wednesday, November 10, 1999 at about 3:00 PM in the afternoon, in hospital in Roanoke, Virginia. I understand that a private family memorial is being held for John in New Hampshire tomorrow.
 

I learned of John's death from his son-in-law, who lives near here and was keeping me abreast of any serious developments by phone. I had heard Tuesday or Wednesday that his wife Dottie had brought his Living Will to the hospital and that family members were flying into Virginia, presumably to say goodbye.

But yesterday was a holiday here, my kids were not in school, and I spent the time here working and playing with them. We spent several hours on grounds work here on the building that John Hammar and Work, Incorporated purchased in order to save my CERJ work and my home -- one of the last noble deeds of his life. I did not check my email until now -- have not even read it yet.
 

It is hard for me to bear the thought that John Hammar died from injuries suffered in an auto wreck on the way home from helping me, my work, and my kids out in such a major way. I don't really know what to say about it right now beyond that fact.
 

One thing I will do, though, is try to assemble some historic facts about John's work and compose them into a eulogy for him for the benefit of those of us who knew him mainly over the Internet. If you have facts or accounts that you would like to contribute to this effort, please write to me in the next few days. I'll also be talking with local activists and family members who have worked with him when he live here in New England, where he did most of his organizing work.
 

John Wilmerding
CERJ General Secretary
http://www.cerj.org