Remembering Bette Hammel: A Life Filled with Love and Laughter
Bette Hammel, a beloved friend and cherished family member, passed away leaving behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and unwavering love. Her daughter, Susan Hammel, fondly recalls a story that encapsulates her mother’s infectious spirit.
“I told my mom that story later,” Susan said. “and she just said, ‘Oh no, it’s just because of Dick,’” who had been gone for more than 20 years by that time. “I’m like, ‘No, mom, they love you, too.’”
The outpouring of affection following Bette’s passing was a testament to the deep impact she had on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Beyond the confines of her immediate family, Bette fostered strong connections with a wide circle of friends and relatives.
## Celebrating a Life Well Lived
Bette’s passing has left a void in the lives of many. She is survived by her daughter, Susan Hammel, and son-in-law Dan Broberg, along with grandchildren Danny and Caleigh, and stepchildren Anne Hammel and Stephen Hammel. Her memory will forever be cherished by these loved ones, as well as numerous other family members and friends who were touched by her presence.
A visitation and funeral Mass will be held on December 17th at St. Bartholomew’s Catholic Church in Wayzata, offering a space for the community to gather, share memories, and celebrate Bette’s extraordinary life.
## A Legacy of Love
Bette’s life was a tapestry woven with threads of kindness, empathy, and laughter. She had a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life, offering a listening ear, a warm smile, and unwavering support.
Those who knew her best speak of Bette’s boundless energy and zest for life. She embraced every moment with enthusiasm and a contagious joy that brightened the lives of everyone around her.
Bette’s absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of kindness, compassion, and humor will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.
How did Bette Hammel’s apple pie become more than just a dessert, and what did it symbolize about her personality?
## Remembering Bette: A Deeper Look at a Life Well-Lived
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the program. Today, we’re remembering the life of Bette Hammel, a woman known for her warmth, generosity, and infectious laughter. Joining us today is Bette’s daughter, Susan Hammel, to share some memories of her extraordinary mother.
Susan, thank you for being with us today. I know this must be a difficult time.
**Susan Hammel:** Thank you for having me. It is indeed difficult, but sharing memories of Mom helps keep her spirit alive.
**Interviewer:** Bette was clearly a woman who touched many lives. Can you tell us a little about what made her so special?
**Susan Hammel:** Mom had this incredible ability to make everyone feel loved and welcomed. Whether it was a close friend or someone she just met, she had this genuine warmth that drew people to her. She was always ready with a hug, a listening ear, and words of encouragement.
**Interviewer:** That warmth is definitely something people remember her for. Was there a particular story that captures the essence of who Bette was?
**Susan Hammel:** There are so many! But one that always comes to mind involves her famous apple pie. She’d bake it for every occasion, and everyone always raved about it. But it wasn’t just the pie itself. It was the way she’d present it, with a big smile and a story about the apples she used or a memory attached to that specific recipe.
It was about love and connection. Even something as simple as a pie became a symbol of her generosity and the joy she brought to others.
**Interviewer:** A beautiful tribute. Bette clearly left a lasting legacy. What do you hope people will remember most about her?
**Susan Hammel:** I hope people remember her laughter, her kindness, and her unwavering love for her family and friends. She taught me the importance of embracing life with joy and treating everyone with compassion. That’s her legacy – a reminder to live a life filled with love and laughter, just like she did.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Susan, for sharing these precious memories of your mother. Bette Hammel will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
