David Hamm 08/28/2026

David Hamm, age 87, New Richmond, WI, formerly of Chetek, WI,  passed away on August 28th after his battle with Alzheimer’s.

David  was born in Denmark, IA and grew up in Moline, IL, attending school and working in his father’s dairy. David married his wife, Patricia in 1960, while enrolled at  Iowa State University where they welcomed their sons Roger and Martin while living in the married student housing.  David worked nights and weekends in the local dairies while studying, receiving his BS in Dairy Industry in 1963 and Masters in 1966 from Iowa State University.  David went on to be a food scientist in Chicago working at Kraft Foods.

In 1973, David and his family relocated to Chetek, WI, where David and Patricia lived until 2023.  David managed operations and performed research at the Swiss Miss plants in Cameron and Menomonie, WI, later retiring from the Land O’Lakes plant in Clear Lake, WI in 1999.  Even in retirement, David continued to use his expertise in food processes, being contracted to help in shelf-stable dairy processing around the world..

While David was well-known for his long work hours and fascination with dairy processing, he also was deeply involved in his community where he was an active member of the Methodist Church and served on the Chetek Police Commission. David also loved the outdoors – snowmobiling, fishing, and hunting.  He enjoyed enlisting  his sons in auto, boat and home repairs, where they still use those skills.  David loved to spend time with his wife Patricia, traveling, as well as supporting her in her many art shows, framing art and setting up booths.

David was known for his strong work-ethic, his willingness to lend a hand, his undeniable talent in solving problems and being able (and willing) to fix almost anything, his sense of humor, but mostly his deep loyalty to those he loved.

David is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Patricia (Mayhew); sisters, Judy McCollum and Mary Boquist, both of Rock Island IL; sons, Roger Hamm (Margaret), and Martin Hamm (Lynn); grandchildren, Mariah Hamm (Elizabeth) and Shai Mayhew (Kyle); great-grandchildren, Ames and Margot. He was preceded in death by parents Herb and Irene Hamm.

Celebration of Life to be held on Tuesday, Sept. 15 at the United Methodist Church, Chetek WI.  Visitation at 10 AM; service at 11 AM.  Luncheon to follow. 

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at The Deerfield Presbyterian Homes in New Richmond, WI for the care and love David received in his journey through Alzheimer’s.    In lieu of flowers, gifts to Presbyterian Homes (preshomes.org/give) or Alzheimer’s Society (alz.org/gift) are appreciated.