Robert "Bob" F. Hemming

Robert F. Hemming, “Lug Nut”… Bob passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, at the age of 76. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, brother, and friend, Bob lived a life defined by service, resilience, curiosity, and deep love for his family, his friends, and his country.

Born on November 16, 1949, in Denver, Colorado, Bob was the eldest child of Dr. John and Kathaleen Hemming. He grew up in Colorado, where his early years were shaped by family, adventure, learning, and the American Mountain West, which established a lifelong love of exploring the outdoors. As a youth, he rode on the horse-mounted drill team of the Westernaires.

Bob attended St. Joseph's Military Academy in Hays, Kansas, before serving as a Captain in the United States Army Corps of Engineers during the Vietnam era. From 1972 to 1977, he served as a Construction Engineering Officer with the 52nd Engineer Battalion, earning his Airborne Wings and serving as a hazardous weapons handling specialist. His military service instilled in him discipline, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to giving back.

In 1976, after the devastating Big Thompson Flood, Bob led nearly 200 soldiers from the 52nd Battalion at Fort Carson in cleanup and recovery efforts.

Following his military service, Bob attended Colorado State University in Fort Collins to study geology. From 1977 to 1998, he built a career as a geologist focused primarily on gold exploration and mining, applying his analytical mind and love of the outdoors to landwork throughout the American West.

He later worked in banking for 16 years, continuing to serve others with integrity and care. In parallel with his professional life, Bob dedicated himself to the mountains as a member of the Professional Division of the National Ski Patroller in Breckenridge for 37 years, blending his medical training and passion for skiing to help ensure the safety of others.

Bob developed a special love for Native American art, especially Santa Clara and San Ildefonso pottery, and found joy in collecting and sharing the history behind each piece. A lifelong rock collector, he never stopped bringing home rocks, minerals, and fossils, always eager to explain their origins to anyone who would listen. He also generously supported the arts in Colorado, including volunteering with Central City Opera.

An avid outdoorsman, Bob carried that same spirit of exploration into his family life. He loved enjoying family adventure trips across Colorado and beyond. Whether pointing out unique rock formations, exploring Colorado river basins, teaching his children how to pan for gold, or spending days skiing together in the mountains, Bob found joy in sharing the natural world with those he loved. His background as a geologist only deepened his enthusiasm, and he delighted in turning every outing into both an adventure and a lesson.

Bob faced significant health challenges later in life with courage and perseverance. Despite these hardships, his greatest joy remained his family and the time shared together.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Hemming; his son, Timothy Hemming; his daughter, Emily Cannon, and her husband, John Cannon; and his cherished grandson, Flynn Cannon. He is also survived by his siblings: Patrick Hemming, Sheila Redger, James Hemming, and Susan Hemming Pendolino. He was preceded in death by his sister, Theresa Holzinger.

Bob will be remembered for his strength, intelligence, adventurous spirit, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. He never passed a mountain without telling us its story.

A burial will take place at Fort Logan National Cemetery with Military Honors. Details regarding services will be shared with family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Bob’s honor to Rocky Mountain Honor Flight or Summit County Rescue Group (https://rockymountainhonorflight.org/ or https://www.scrg.org/).

Bob had the meaningful opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. in September 2023 as part of the Rocky Mountain Honor Flight organization, a trip that deeply honored his military service and allowed him to connect with fellow veterans. Donations to Summit County Rescue Group recognize Summit County and Breckenridge, a community Bob proudly served as a Ski Patroller and a place that remained close to his heart and felt like home.

Please share your memories of Bob and condolences with his family by signing the guest book below.