John's Memory Wall
We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of John here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
I admired and respected John from the
time I first joined the prosecutor's office, and
this only increased when I became his colleague
on the Berrien County bench. He was a great
friend and mentor to me. John left his imprint
on justice and the law, both in Berrien County
and the state of Michigan. He will be missed.
Hugh W. Black
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Hugh Black
July 26th, 2020 at 9:39pm
He was the best mentor EVER to a law clerk, and a true gentleman!!
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John M. Donahue
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:39pm
Mrs. Hammond, I was so very sorry to read of Judge Hammond's passing. Your family has always been special to me over the years. I always learned something when I was at Court with Judge Hammond. I remember a few missions to locate a file or two. I always appreciated his sense of fairness and right and wrong. I especially enjoyed his quick sense of humor. When I was still pretty new to the area, knew few people outside the Court system and the Prosecutors Office, I returned from a vacation. I disembarked the plane in South Bend only to see the Judge standing there as if he was waiting for me [which I knew he wasn't]. I smiled and said Judge you didn't have to meet my plane. He played right along and we laughed. Then I met your son who was disembarking right behind me. Later I had the fortune to work with Karen and we shared a friendship. She was so sweet and smart. The world moved way to fast to fully appreciate her. You have always been kind and welcoming to me, and I thank you. I sincerely hope your memories will sustain you through the difficult days of adjustment ahead. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Fondly, Peg Penninger
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Margaret Stanley
June 24th, 2020 at 2:47pm
I enjoyed reading about Judge Hammond's professional accomplishment, however my memory is more personal. Approximately 35 years ago he as looking for a contractor to do some work on his home and I was new to the business, but bid the project and we met to discuss terms and starting. I discovered a day or two later that some of the work required a license I did not have yet, I returned, embarrassed, and told him that I could not fulfill my obligation and why. He said he understood, that I was doing the right thing backing out even though I had caused him some inconvenience. He asked me to wait a moment, went into another room and came back with a check for $100.00. He explained to me that honesty would be a great asset for my business and he wanted to help me get started and care for my young family. I got my builders license and continued on till retirement. I have never forgotten that kindness and will be forever grateful for that moment of mentoring. Thank you again, may you rest in peace.
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John H. Conlin
June 24th, 2020 at 7:42am
I am so sorry to learn of Judge Hammond's passing. He was a regular contributor to the Michigan Judicial Institute "suggestion" box with both substantive and procedural ideas for judicial education programs and publications. He loved the law dearly and was earnest in his quest to make sure we all understood and appreciated it as well. He was a unique jurist who worked hard to improve the judiciary. My condolences to the family.
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Dawn McCarty
June 23rd, 2020 at 3:11pm
Judge Hammond had not only a dry sense of humor but his timing was impeccable. Many times I waited in court and was entertained by his comments and wit. Thoughts and prayers to the family.
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Heather Gitersonke Quint
June 23rd, 2020 at 2:57pm
Betsy, I was so sad to hear of the Judge's passing. He was a mentor and I owe my success with the Court to his guidance, counsel, and advise. I considered him more than a boss he was a friend. He was the "father" of District Court and a great
legal mind. Sandy Belter
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Sandy Belter
June 23rd, 2020 at 10:26am
I worked for Judge Hammond for several years and it was the most enjoyable time of all my years with the Friend of the Court. Judge Hammond was always kind and courteous; a true gentleman in every sense. My condolences to Betsy who is, herself, a true lady.
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Joyce Marquardt
June 20th, 2020 at 6:20pm