Laurine V. Hamm, nee Ernst beloved Daughter, Sister, Wife, Aunt, Great Aunt, “mother” to many, and friend to all passed away peacefully at age 91 in the presence of those who loved her.
Laurine was born and raised in St. Louis, the third child of August and Viola Erst, nee Hoelscher. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ralph Hamm: brother August (Betty) Ernst; sister Shirley (Robert) Burian: nieces Rhea Ernst, Jennifer Ernst, and Debra Chesney, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
After attending Cleveland High School, Laurine graduated from Deaconess Nursing School. She then embarked on a lifetime devoted to caring for adults with disabilities through a sheltered workshop and establishing group homes. She finally retired from Challenges Unlimited after 60 years of dedicated service.
Throughout her life Laurine maintained a membership and leadership position in Nazareth UCC, Bethesda Evangelical Church, Affton AARP, International Order of Rainbow for Girls, and was on the board of her residential community. She loved fishing, gardening, music, cake decorating, getting together with friends, and playing cards. Despite experiencing health issues throughout her life, Laurine never complained, pushed herself beyond her limits and displayed limitless energy.
Laurine never had children of her own but was an amazing aunt and role model to her nine nieces and nephews. She was also a godmother, “second mother” and grandmother to many she met throughout her life. Laurine was a true care giver who was generous with her time, extremely thoughtful, and provided for those in need. She is someone truly loved, admired, and respected by all who knew her.
Laurine’s greatest love was her family and all those she adopted as family. In return, she was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by those who were blessed to have known her.
Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel, 10151 Gravois Rd. St. Louis, Mo. 63123 on Friday, January 2nd from 4:00 pm to 8:00 p.m., followed by service on Saturday, January 3rd at 10:00 a.m. Interment at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Alzheimer’s Association, Humane Society of Missouri, Stray Rescue of St. Louis, or Nurse Honor Guard St. Louis.
At Specialized Services/Challenge Unlimited, Laurine Hamm was dedicated to bringing opportunities where individuals with disabilities could increase their abilities to interact with others and learn to grow in their communities. She was the best of us.
I’m so glad to reconnect with the family. But I was really wanting to hold you and tell you how much I love you! I’M SURE YOU already know, how much you meant to all of us!
LAURINE was a life time friend for 60 years. We shared many deep conversations about life and its challenges. She was a strong supporter and dedicated to the betterment of the clients at Challenge. She was always a friend to me and my children now at peace , reunited with loved ones she will grace her new journey with the kindness and compassion she demonstrated daily.
Miss you my dear friend
LAURINE was my friend for 60’years. She was a great communicator and human interest and kindness. We shared many soul searching conversations. A true friend, dedicated to helping and sharing her care giving skills. She is greatly missed and fondly remembered. May peace be with you on this new journey