James F. "Jim" Hammel

James F. Hammel, 72, of Freeburg, IL, born July 30, 1953, in Red Bud, IL, passed away on Monday December 8, 2025, at the Freeburg Care Center in Freeburg, IL surrounded by family. He was a retired coal miner who loved woodworking and playing poker.

Preceding him in death were his parents – Lester and Ethel (nee Staufenbiel) Hammel and a son – Joshua James Hammel who died in 1980 and a brother Mike Hammel.

Jim is survived by his loving wife – the former Pamela Volner, whom he married on October 26, 1974, at New Athens, and his siblings – Peg Sher, of St. Louis, MO, Tom (Linda) Hammel of Millstadt, IL, Christine (Jim) Brannon of Liberty Lake, WA, Dan (Sheri) Hammel of Waterloo, IL a brother-in-law Rick Volner and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Jim's family would like to extend a special thank you to Freeburg Care Center and Vitas Hospice for the exceptional care Jim received.

Memorials may be made to the Freeburg Care Center Activities Fund or Vitas Hospice.

Visitation: 9 – 11 a.m. on Monday December 15, 2025, at St. John United Church of Christ in New Athens, IL.

Funeral: Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday December 15, 2025, at St. John United Church of Christ in New Athens, IL with Rev. Dr. Robert Koch officiating.

Heil-Schuessler Funeral Home in New Athens, IL is in charge of arrangements.