William Charles Hammer

William Charles Hammer, "Bill", 96, passed away on October 5th, 2025. Bill was born February 11th, 1929 in Phoenix, AZ to William B. and Martha Hammer. He was a 1947 graduate of Phoenix Union High School where he was a standout on the football team. He went on to Arizona State University where was on the football team and played in the Salad Bowl in 1950. Bill graduated in 1952 with a degree in business. Bill eventually purchased the family printing business, Messenger Printing Company, running it until it closed in 1992.
Bill discovered a passion for sportfishing early on and the fantastic fishing in Rocky Point in the 1950's captured his spirit. His time in Rocky Point is where Bill really dialed in his skill and love of fishing and boating, and became his home-away-from-home for many years. During his years spent there, he contributed to the development of Cholla Bay and the Cholla Bay Sportsman Club in the early years.
Eventually Bill, along with his wife, Betty Lou, followed the fish further south and found a forever home in San Carlos. They established the Labor Day Invitational Tournament in 1984 in San Carlos, MX. Through those efforts they raised over $300,000 over 30+ years to help establish and sustain programs in the San Carlos community.
His passion extended to boats and over the years Bill salvaged, rebuilt and repaired boats of all kinds. If you couldn't find a needed boat part, Bill would fabricate it in his shop for you. If you have a boat in San Carlos, chances are you've gone to Bill for a part and left a friend.
Bill will be remembered for his sense of humor, passion and knowledge of fishing, and the love he shared with his family and friends.
Bill is preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Betty Lou, his son, John, and is survived by his sister, Angie Suk; son, Thomas Hammer; his granddaughter, Cara Hammer Campbell and three grandsons, Matthew J. Hammer, Joseph E. Hammer and Alexander W. Hammer; six great-grandchildren, Betty Lou and Raegan Campbell, Wilson, Chase, Cole and Liam Hammer.
A celebration of her life will be held at Messinger Mortuary, 7601 East Indian School Road, Scottsdale, AZ on Sunday, October 26th at 10:30 AM. A reception will follow at Los Olivos Mexican Food Restaurant in Old Town Scottsdale, AZ. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the Pat Tillman Foundation: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/pat-tillman-foundation/in-honor-of-bill-hammer