Calvin H. Hemker

Calvin H. Hemker, 76 of La Crosse passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2015 at Hillview Healthcare Center La Crosse.
He was born January 11, 1939 to Hilbert H. and Mildred O. (Anderson) Hemker of Barre Mills, WI. He married JoAnn Baumgartner on May 13, 1968 at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church, La Crosse. She preceded him in death on Tuesday, December 12, 2000.
In earlier years, Cal worked as a hired hand, helping neighboring farmers tend their land. In later years, he worked at Dairyland Power and completed his career at La Crosse Rubber Mills, retiring with 26 years of dedicated service.
Survivors include his three brothers and families; Robert (Carol) of Phenix City, Alabama, Harold and Ron (Cheri) both of Onalaska; an aunt, Bernice Roellich of Onalaska; a brother and sister-in-law and many much loved nieces and nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends. In addition to his wife JoAnn and her parents, Arnold and Adeline Baumgartner, Cal was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Donald and an infant son, Carl
Cal’s family is very grateful and appreciative of the very compassionate care given to Cal by members of the ICU staff at Mayo Health Care System and Hillview Health Care, Theresa at Wisconsin Cares and Linda at Carroll Heights during his extended stay.
Cal was a very kind, gentle soul who greatly appreciated and enjoyed his many friends, caregivers, and new acquaintances he made while recovering from his accident injuries. His always-upbeat attitude, sense of humor and warm smile will be truly missed. May he rest in peace.
A celebration of Cal’s life will be held from 2-4 PM, Sunday, August 16th at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral and Cremation Services, 200 West Ave. S. La Crosse. A private family burial will take place in Woodlawn Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the charity of the donor’s choice.