Chelsea- James R. Hammeren, 83, of Cooper Road died on February 24, 2026, at Maine General Hospital in Augusta following declining health. James was born in Watford City, ND on October 12, 1942, the son of the late Magnus and Lovota (Lindsey) Hammeren. After completing high school, James enlisted and served in the United States Army, during his time in the service, Jim completed three tours of duty during the Vietnam War and earned the rank of sergeant. On July 7, 1983, Jim married Louise Pelletier in a Chapel in Hinkley, Maine. Together they shared 43 years of marriage. Most of Jim's career was in restaurants as a chef. He ended his cooking career in the kitchen of Thayer Hospital, a position he held until he retired in 1995. Unable to remain idle, Jim continued to work part-time at Oak Grove and at Cony Park Retirement Homes until 2009. In his spare time, he loves working on projects around the house, fishing, camping and spending time with his grandchildren. The family to give a special heartfelt thank you to the staff of Mount Saint Joseph's in Waterville, for the wonderful care they gave to Jim. Jim was predeceased by three brothers, Stanley, Terry and Ronnie Hammeren; three sisters, Marjorie, Marion and Beverly; a stepson, Harold Erkson. He is survived by his wife, Louise Hammeren; three daughters, Holly, Heather and Jennifer; four grandchildren, Kimberly, Joshua, Lacey and Zachary; nine great grandchildren. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 12:00pm in the Chapel at the New Maine Veterans Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Road, Augusta, ME. Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave, Gardiner, ME. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family by visiting the Staples Funeral Home website www.StaplesFuneralHome.com