WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – The absence of Susan Hammerton resonates profoundly with those who cherished her, as they grapple with the unbearable void left in the places where she should have been present.
As Elana James meticulously sifts through her mother’s possessions, it is the abrupt interruptions of daily life that leave a lasting impact – a pill organizer frozen in time mid-week, an open laptop poised to finalize travel arrangements, all reflecting the untimely disruption that has altered their lives.
“She was in the middle of all of these things that we all do,” James reflected with deep sadness. “…One moment all these aspects of her life were actively unfolding, and in the blink of an eye, she simply vanished.”
Tragically, Hammerton, 81, was violently killed when an intruder unlawfully entered her home on Breckland Drive in the early hours of September 13. During this horrific incident, Hammerton, along with her partner Ed Berger and their beloved golden retriever, Isabelle, were attacked. While Berger and Isabelle managed to survive, Hammerton succumbed to her injuries during emergency surgery.
“Five or 10 minutes can just turn your life totally upside-down,” Berger stated, reflecting on the swift changes that unfurled in their lives.
Berger and Hammerton rekindled their relationship at the Royal Oak Dondero High School’s 50-year class reunion, where Berger felt an instantaneous connection to Hammerton that he couldn’t shake. “From the moment we began talking, there was a unique pull,” he shared.
“I followed her around the entire night. It was as if she had a magnet in her back,” Berger recalled, unequivocally stating that he was “a goner” from that delightful evening onward.
Together, they enjoyed a loving partnership that lasted 14 wonderful years, creating cherished memories along the way.
Although Hammerton originally hailed from Royal Oak, she raised her two daughters, Sarah Aptilon and Elana James, in Kansas City, where she built a fulfilling career as a clinical nurse and psychiatric consultant before returning to her roots in Michigan in 1993, as highlighted in her obituary.
Upon her return to Michigan, Hammerton quickly immersed herself in the local orchestral scene, lending her enthusiasm to various groups, including the Saginaw Bay Symphony Orchestra. “Though she never formally held a title, she exuded the charm of the ‘social director’ for our ensemble,” said Gregg Powell, orchestra personnel manager, fondly remembering her vibrant presence.
“She acted as the catalyst that brought together 15 or 20 people for a meal at a Chinese restaurant between rehearsals and performances,” Powell noted.
“It’s hard to find anyone who crossed paths with her and didn’t take an immediate liking to her,” he added.
Hammerton’s love for music was a gift she handed down to her daughters, instilling a passion that was sometimes seen as an obligation, depending on who was telling the story.
“It wasn’t a question of whether we wanted to play an instrument. It was more a declaration: ‘You are going to play; now, what instrument will you choose?’” Aptilon recalled with a chuckle.
“We never entertained the thought of quitting because we understood that wasn’t an option,” she added humorously, emphasizing their mother’s determination.
James, who pursued a career as a professional musician, fondly reminisced about playing duets with her mother, who introduced her to the intricacies of the music industry. “As an 8-year-old, I found myself backstage, mingling with seasoned musicians, which felt completely normal,” James said, reflecting on those formative experiences.
“She has been endlessly supportive and enthusiastic, truly my greatest champion,” James praised, cherishing the honest feedback her mother offered, which she regards as a priceless gift.
Aptilon’s musician son has recently received a treasure trove of his grandmother’s classical music CDs, which Aptilon hopes he will use to inspire future quartets at home – an experience that filled her childhood with joyous noise.
“They would play just for the joy of it in the living room, accompanied by laughter and wine,” Aptilon reminisced. “It created a wonderfully festive and delightful atmosphere.”
Known affectionately to her friends as “Sooze” or “Suey,” Hammerton was celebrated for her sharp wit, exuberant humor, and appreciation for the finer things in life. Her immaculate standards for both herself and her home were evident, with James recalling her mother’s penchant for photographing her beautiful garden and home, as well as their dog Isabelle.
Berger expressed astonishment that Isabelle survived the traumatic episode; her resilience shone through, as he realized she was healing when she fetched one of her cherished toys. “She turned around and picked up a soft toy from a pile of her belongings and took it outside,” Berger recounted, a glimmer of hope in his voice. “In that moment, I knew she was back.”
While Berger remains engaged with his music and theater passions, his personal recovery has presented greater challenges. He expressed a sense of isolation, feeling that those around him perceive him as more okay than he truly feels.
“She truly is irreplaceable; I don’t foresee anything even remotely as wonderful as she was,” Berger lamented. “We had envisioned a life together.”
Aptilon finds comfort in the enduring memory of her mother’s humor and spirit, which continues to uplift her, even during difficult moments. She believes her mother would have wanted them to celebrate life and move forward despite the grief. “I reflect on how nothing felt off-limits for her, and I’ve come to understand how she would have wished for us to navigate through this loss,” she stated. “She was a radiant presence. I refuse to believe that her light has diminished. Instead, I feel that it continues to shine brightly.”
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**Interview with Elana James, Daughter of Susan Hammerton**
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Elana, for being with us today during this incredibly difficult time. I can’t begin to express how sorry I am for the loss of your mother, Susan Hammerton. Could you start by sharing a little about her?
**Elana James**: Thank you for having me. My mother, Susan, was an extraordinary woman. She brought so much joy to everyone she met. She had a vibrant personality, a sharp wit, and an unparalleled love for music and gardening. Even in her late years, she remained active in the local orchestral scene, continuously bringing people together.
**Interviewer**: It sounds like she had a profound impact on many lives. What do you think her legacy will be?
**Elana James**: I believe her legacy lies in the connections she fostered. She had this incredible gift of making everyone feel welcome and valued. Whether through her music or her interactions with friends and family, she nurtured so many relationships. We are dedicated to keeping her spirit alive by ensuring that love and music continue to flourish within our family.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned the importance of music in your lives. Could you elaborate on that?
**Elana James**: Absolutely. Music was a binding thread in our family. My mother instilled a strong sense of musicality in my sister and me, always encouraging us to pick up instruments. I fondly remember the countless times we would play together, which were some of the most cherished moments of my childhood. My mother’s enthusiasm for music wasn’t just a passion; it was a way for us to bond and create lasting memories.
**Interviewer**: That sounds beautiful. The circumstances surrounding your mother’s passing are heartbreaking. In your reflections, what stands out the most about that night?
**Elana James**: It’s hard to put into words. Just moments before, she was alive, surrounded by her loved ones and participating in life’s simple routines. And then, everything changed in an instant. The disruption was so abrupt, and it leaves a void that is difficult to comprehend. Her absence is felt profoundly; it’s as if a part of our lives has been paused forever.
**Interviewer**: Your partner, Ed, also experienced this tragedy with you. How are you all coping together?
**Elana James**: We’re still trying to process everything. Ed and my mom shared a beautiful 14-year partnership, and he’s been a rock for us. We lean on each other for support, and although there’s a lot of pain, we also share wonderful memories that help to keep her spirit alive. Finding strength in each other is crucial right now.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Elana. What do you want people to know about your mother?
**Elana James**: I want people to remember her energy and kindness. She was approachable, never met a stranger, and could light up a room with her contagious laughter. Her passion for life and her commitment to family and friends defined who she was. Please, remember her for the love she gave, and let that spirit resonate in your lives.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for sharing your memories with us, Elana. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this time.
**Elana James**: Thank you. We appreciate the support and love from the community.
