Clinton "CJ" Jay Hammer

August 29th, 1947 - June 9th, 2026

Memorial

Mementos

Clinton Jay Hammer, 78, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on June 9, 2026. Born on August 29, 1947, Clint lived a life defined by service to his country, his dedication to his career, and his loving family.

Clint served in the United States Navy from July 14, 1967, to April 1, 1971, as an Electrician’s Mate aboard the Tench-class diesel-electric submarine USS Tigrone (AGSS-419). His service represented the discipline and sense of duty that would define the rest of his life.

A graduate of Kansas State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Journalism, Clint furthered his education at Central Missouri State University, earning a Master of Science degree. Following his honorable discharge, he served as a Kansas State Trooper before building a distinguished career as a DOT Safety and Insurance Consultant with Lockton. Though known for his professionalism and discipline, Clint was equally beloved for his humor and his ability to light up a room. His colleagues at Lockton knew him not only for his expertise but for the warmth and laughter he brought with him. When asked what time it was, the answer was always the same — “It’s Hammertime.”

Outside of his career, Clint took satisfaction in carpentry and construction, and reloading ammunition. He enjoyed hunting and fishing across the United States and Canada alongside dear friends and colleagues, as well as camping and the outdoors, and valued time at home with his wife, Cindy, and their dog, Boomer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Murray and Lora Hammer

Clinton Jay Hammer is survived by his wife, Cynthia Hammer; his children, Erikka and Cole Jehle, Ande and Jorge Villafuerte, and Jeff Hammer; his step-children, Brandon and Brianna Craft and his grandchildren, Isaac, Anthony, Natalie Rose, Naomi Villafuerte and Chance, Alice, Aubrey, Blake, Brody, Cannan, and Abel Craft; his sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Ron Zimmerman; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Julie and Dave Winter; mother-in-law Pam Staatz and many niece and nephews.

To honor Clint’s memory, a private burial will take place at a later time. Those wishing to honor his memory are welcome to make a donation to Monarch Hospice & Palliative Care, 7451 Switzer Rd, Suite 100, Merriam, Kansas 66203.

Clint will be deeply missed and will be remembered as a man of duty, integrity, honor, and sense of humor.

Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor Clinton’s life with a heartfelt message.

Dr. Richard M. Generson

Clint was my closest friend our first year at K State, It scares me at some of the things we did, but we did have fun together. I spent my first Thanksgiving at Clint's home as my home in NY was too far to go for such a short holiday. We even went to work at an STP factory- a very sticky job. I did visit Clint in CT and got a tour of his submarine including his bunk. It was tiny, and a good thing he wasn't a giant. He also spent time at my home in NY when he got leave from his Sub. We have stayed in touch over the years, but regrettably never saw each other again. We talked about it, but as life has it, we waited too long. I am devastated to hear of Clint's passing. He was one of a kind that will always be part of my life's memories. I will miss him. I

Published September 15th, 2026

Julie Spandet

What a great man! So many great memories and stories. Until we meet again, Hammer.

Published June 28th, 2026

Todd Reiser

I got to work alongside Hammer early in my career at Lockton - he was one of the funniest and easy-going people I have ever met. Lots of great stories and road-trips - he was one of a kind. To quote another lost Lockton legend Steve Updegraff - “What about Hammmerrrr!” He will be missed - our thoughts and best wishes to the family.

Published July 3rd, 2026

Gig Specht

Great friend, colleague and brother sailor!

Published June 28th, 2026