Monk Hemmer

1952 - 2025

Monk Hemmer, 73, of Independence, IA passed away on November 7, 2025, at Northcrest Specialty Care Center, Waterloo, IA.

Born on July 3, 1952, in Bronx New York. He grew up on the East Coast and carried with him a spirt of adventure and resilience that would define his life. After graduating high school he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served honorably for fourteen years. His time in the Navy took him around the world and gave him countless stories that he loved to share tales of distant places and unforgettable experiences that reflected his curious mind and open heart.

It was during a leave from service that Monk's life changed forever. He accompanied a fellow sailor, John O'loughlin, to Independence, IA. There Monk met the Hemmer family, a meeting he believed was destined. In them, he found the love h had longed for. On August 31, 1983, at the age of 31, Monk was officially adopted by Don and Helen Hemmer. From that moment forward, he embraced his new family with unwavering devotion and pride. He often said he was the "Chosen One," the sentiment that spoke to how deeply he valued being part of something greater than himself.

Monk eventually made Independence his home when Don and Helen needed someone to help them with daily life. Without hesitation, Monk stepped into the role of driving them where they needed to go assisting with household tasks, and offering companionship rooted in love and gratitude. He remained by their side until Don's passing and Helen's relocation to be with other family members. His selflessness during those years was a testament to his character, kind heart dependability, and quietly heroic.

He is lovingly remembered by his siblings: Connie (Bob) Vanersvelde, Jim (Tami) Hemmer, Jane (Michael) Leaven, Holly (Ron) Dudley, Mike (Grace) Hemmer, Judy Beason, Molly Grober, Angela (Doug) Stark, Bruce (Melitta) Hemmer, as well as many nieces and nephews who were touched by his warmth and humor.

A unique interests and passions extraterrestrial life and watching anything related to aliens. A proud member of M.U.F.O.N. (Mutual UFO Network), he firmly believed and always hoped for a UFO sighting of his own. He also held membership in the American Legion in Independence.

Monk enjoyed life's simple pleasures, strong coffee shared over conversation, cigarettes smoked while watching the sky, Black Velvet whiskey sipped right out of the bottle as stories unfolded. He hated making decisions but never hesitated when it came to helping others. He appreciated everything every kindness shown to him and every moment spent with those he cared about. He lived on day at a time with an easy-going nature the endeared him to all who knew him. Monk was truly one of a kind a gentle soul who cherished connection over convention and gratitude over grandeur.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and remind us all of the quiet strength found in kindness.

To leave an online condolence please go to www.reifffamilycenter.com under obituaries.