Allen and Karen Hammer

Allen Drew and Karen Melanie (Bierly) Hammer, 83 and 82, of Monroeville, Pennsylvania.  Karen died Thursday, September 26, 2024, and Allen rejoined her in heaven six months later on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.  They are survived by three daughters, Kelly Perry (Kirk) of Greensburg, Kimber Hess (Brian) of Greensburg, and Kristy Garcia (Mike Valeri) of Leechburg; grandchildren, Kayla (Zack) Spangler, Samantha (Charles) DeWitt, Gigi (Travis) Rauch, Jojo Garcia, Brooke Hess, Bree Hess and Alexandra Perry; great grandchildren, Kinsley DeWitt, Adler DeWitt, Phoenix Rauch, Madelyn Spangler, Griffin Rauch, Luke Spangler, Slade DeWitt and Axel Rauch.

Karen was born February 26, 1942, in Lock Haven, a daughter of the late Clarence Willis and Lois Jeanette (Neff) Bierly. Karen is survived by siblings, Simone, Clarissa, Candace, J. Michael, Timothy R., Mark S., David D., and Jon R.; and numerous nieces and nephews.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Gerald W., Peter K., and Clarence B.

Drew was born September 20, 1941, in Bellefonte, and raised by his grandparents David and Helen Weiser.  In addition to his parents, Alvin Harrison and Evelyn Elizabeth (Weiser) Hammer, he was preceded in death by his sibling, Phyllis.

Prior to retirement, Karen spent her years in nursing, in clinical, administration, and education.  The highlight of her career was being the Vice President of Nursing at UPMC Montefiore Hospital, Pittsburgh.  She was a member of the DAR and various healthcare and nursing organizations. She enjoyed reading, painting, gardening, and in her early years, cross-country skiing.  

Prior to retirement, Drew spent his years in the banking industry and as a small business owner.  The highlight of his career was being the Vice President of the Wilkinsburg branch of Equibank.  He was a member of the Rotary, the Chamber of Commerce and various other industry organizations.  He enjoyed reading, writing, photography and excelled at playing FreeCell.

Karen and Drew after a 7-year courtship were married in 1963. Shortly after Drew was deployed under a special forces unit of the United States Army.  Drew had an undying devotion to his country and to his loving wife of 61 years.  Karen and Drew both enjoyed Sunday drives, chocolate Frostys, 500 Bid, country music and spending time with their daughters.

A memorial service for Karen and Drew will be held at Steven R. Neff Funeral Home, 120 W Main Street, Millheim, PA 16854 at 1:00 pm on Saturday, May 10, 2025. 

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