Patricia Ann Hemmer

Patricia (Pat) Ann Hemmer, age 84, of Egan, SD, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of family.

A private family service will be held. 

Pat was born on January 24, 1942, in Mitchell, SD, to Geroge and Frances (Larimore) Van Hecke. She attended McCurdy Country School and graduated from Colman, SD in 1960. In 1961, she was united in marriage to James (Jim) Hemmer at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Sioux Falls, SD. They made their home and farmed with their 4 sons near Lone Tree.

Pat found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved spending time on her porch, taking in the beauty of the world around her while admiring the flowers she carefully tended and the birds that frequently visited. A devoted lover of cats, she found comfort and companionship in their gentle presence throughout her life.

A hardworking and compassionate woman, Pat was a teacher in every sense of the word. Whether she was sharing her love of painting, teaching others about flowers and nature, or passing along life’s practical lessons, she inspired those around her with patience, kindness, and generosity. She always put others before herself, offering a helping hand, a listening ear, and unwavering support whenever it was needed.

Above all else, her family was the center of her world. She treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and loved ones, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. Her love was constant, unconditional, and evident in everything she did.

Pat will be remembered for her gentle heart, selfless spirit, quiet strength, and the love she gave so freely to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the lessons she taught, and the love she shared.

She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Jim, Egan, SD; four sons: Steve (Sue) Hemmer of Colman, Jeff (Kim) Hemmer, Brad (Lynn) Hemmer, and Mike (Amy) Hemmer all of Dell Rapids, SD; 10 grandchildren: John, Dani, Drew, Paige, Brooke, Jake, Chase, Mackenzie, Abby, and Brandon; 22 great-grandchildren; siblings Jim VanHecke and Linda (Jerry) Pliska; sister-in-law, Darleen Hemmer; and nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Frances Van Hecke; and in-laws, Tom and Rose Hemmer, Fritz Hemmer, and Carole VanHecke.