Ida Clara Hammer

Ida Clara Hammer (Powers), 95, of Johnston, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, December 9, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa.

Clara was born January 7, 1930, in Ferguson, Iowa, to Harley and Daisy Powers. She spent most of her life in the Des Moines area, where she built a life centered on family, faith, and steady service to others. In high school, she enjoyed playing basketball and kittenball, and she carried that love of activity and friendly competition throughout her life.

Clara worked for many years in food service for Des Moines Public Schools. After retiring, she continued giving her time through volunteering with her church and other organizations, and she enjoyed traveling with her husband. She loved bowling, playing card games (bringing a fun, competitive edge to the table), and hosting family gatherings for the holidays. Clara will be remembered as kind and generous, with an occasional sassy spark that made people smile.

Clara was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Hammer; her son, Greg Hammer; her parents, Harley and Daisy Powers; her brother, Roy Powers; and her sister, Irene Beck.

She is survived by her sons, Bill Hammer (Li-Wen) and Mike Hammer; her daughter-in-law, Roxan Hammer; grandchildren, Tim (Ericka), Rachel (DJ), Sarah, Diana (Cody), Zach (Kiera), and Josh; as well as her great-grandchildren and other loved family members and friends.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 11 a.m. at The Mission Church in Urbandale, Iowa, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery, where Clara will be laid to rest next to her husband.

Memorial gifts may be made to AGAPE Des Moines and condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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