Ernest "Ernie" Albert Hamm Jr.

Aug 20, 1928 -

Sep 11, 2026

Ernest Albert Hamm Jr., known as Ernie, passed away on Sept. 11, 2026, at the age of 98, at Marlow Manor in Anchorage, Alaska, with his daughters by his side.

Born on Aug. 20, 1928, in Gloversville, N.Y., Ernie's life was marked by his generous spirit and engaging personality.

Ernie graduated from Gloversville High School before attending Union College, where he was a member of the Alpha Chapter of Delta Phi, class of 1950.

His commitment to service was evident through his involvement with the New York Army National Guard from 1948 to 1950, and subsequently with the Alaska Army National Guard from 1950 to 1954.

Ernie's adventurous spirit led him to Alaska on a spontaneous road trip with two friends from Gloversville in a 1949 DeSoto convertible. He arrived on Flag Day, June 15, 1950.

His early career included working for the Alaska Road Commission and brief periods in construction and as a police officer in Anchorage.

In May 1955, he began his career with the Singer Sewing Machine Company as a salesman and, eventually becoming the Manager for the State of Alaska until his retirement in September 1983.

Not one to remain idle, Ernie came out of retirement the following month to open Riehl Sew n Vac, a business he and his wife, Bobby, successfully operated until their final retirement on July 18, 2011.

Ernie married Evelyn, affectionately known as Bobby, on Nov. 5, 1952. Ernie and Bobby were introduced by George and Ruth McLaughlin in October 1951. They were married by Magistrate Dorothy Saxton in Palmer, Alaska, at Dorothy's homestead. They shared nearly 70 years together until her passing on July 9, 2012.

Ernie is survived by his daughter, Sharon McCracken; daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Charlie Licho; son, Ernest Hamm III; daughter-in-law, Sally Hamm; son-in-law, Eric Titus; granddaughter, Alexandria "Lexi" Hamm; great-grandchildren, Emrys and Lyla Hamm-Pinnow; and courtesy "granddaughter," Ainsley Hipsak. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bobby; daughter, Karen Hamm; son, Greg Hamm; and son-in-law, Dennis McCracken.

Throughout his life, Ernie was a fixture at sporting events, particularly enjoying the Great Alaska Shootout. He and Bobby cherished their time at Nancy Lake and Iliamna, and their years traveling to Las Vegas, Hawaii, and various international destinations.

In line with his wishes, no services will be held.

Contributions in memory of Ernie can be made to Boys Town or a charity of your choice.

Ernie's legacy of warmth, dedication and community involvement will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Arrangements by the Cremation Society of Alaska, www.alaskacremation.com.