Yvonne “Vonnie” J. Hammer (Manthey), 91, passed away peacefully at Eagle Point Senior Living in Appleton, WI on May 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, creativity, and conviction.

Vonnie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 68 years, Floyd A. Hammer; her parents, Alphonse (“Alf”) and Amelia (“Mick”) Manthey; and her brother, Bob (Elaine) Manthey. She is survived by her other siblings Jerry (Marlys) Manthey, Marylou (Bob) Weins, and Cyril (Judy) Manthey.

She is lovingly remembered by her five children: Julene Hammer (Sue Grunn); Terry Wood-Hammer; Kathy Lewis-Hammer; Darlene (Dennis) Nagan-Hammer; and Michael (Connie) Hammer. Her legacy continues through her 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

Vonnie was born into a farm family in rural Ramona, South Dakota, where she learned to work hard and work together as a family. After graduating High School, she went on the adventure of her life to California and places west working for the railroad, before returning to Ramona. There she met a young farmer from Junius, South Dakota, Floyd Hammer. In 1957, on June 15th (68 years) they were married and began raising a family, having 5 children in 8 years. It was a humble and hard beginning as they farmed near Junius, eventually selling and moving to Appleton, Wisconsin in 1966, where they spent most of their years raising their family.

While Floyd worked in farm equipment sales, Vonnie’s giftedness and creative spirit came alive as she began her career as a hairdresser, where she not only practiced her craft but built meaningful connections with those she served. Later in life, when she and Floyd retired to Arizona, she discovered a unique artistic talent—transforming silverware into beautiful, handcrafted jewelry. Her work reflected both her creativity and her ability to see beauty where others might not. Few things brought her as much joy as when she was creating and selling her jewelry all over the country. Her crowning jewel was to be able to pass on this passion and skill to several of her children and grandchildren, who continue their artistry today.

Vonnie lived her life with remarkable passion and boldness. Her faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of who she was—guiding her decisions, shaping her relationships, and fueling her strong voice and convictions. She loved being involved in the churches they attended, and loved Gospel Music, especially the Gaithers. She was never afraid to begin conversations with whomever she crossed paths with, and she always stood firm in her beliefs, both in her spiritual life and in her political views, and she did so with unwavering courage.

Vonnie will be remembered for her hard work ethic, her creativity, her deep faith and beliefs, and her fierce “never give up” love for her family. Her life was a testament to living boldly and passionately, leaving an enduring impact on all who knew her.

A celebration of Vonnie’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 2:30pm at Eagle Point Senior Living, 955 E. John St., Appleton, WI.

The family would like to thank Eagle Point and their entire staff, Hospice Moments and Wichmann Funeral Home for their personal and professional loving care! Additionally, thank you to all their friends who came to visit and share the lifetime of memories that were created.