Mary J. Hammermeister, 72, of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, surrounded by her family at the Benedictine Health System in St. Peter, Minnesota.

Mary Joy was born Feb. 12, 1944, in Austin, Minnesota, to Leo and Marie (Mahnke) Brands. She graduated from Austin High School with the Class of 1962 and went on to earn her associate degree from Austin Community College. Mary was united in marriage to Loren R. Hammermeister on April 9, 1966, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin. Mary and Loren lived in Dexter for a short time before moving to Rochester. They raised their family of three girls, and Mary worked for 20 years in the dietary department at Saint Marys Hospital. In 2008 Mary and Loren returned to Austin. Mary had many interests including, sewing, needle work, walking, baking, and camping. They enjoyed 30 years at their lake place on Lake Zumbro. She most enjoyed time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughters, Ann (Dan) Williamson of Chanhassen, Minnesota, Debra (Don) Conway of Shakopee, Minnesota, and Lora (Adam) Chiabotti of St. Peter, Minnesota; grandchildren, Marissa, Elizabeth and Natalie Williamson, Alaena Chiabotti and Baby Boy Chiabotti; brother-in-law, Stan (Doris) Hammermeister of Bellevue, Nebraska; and sister-in-law, Beverly (Dave) Erickson of Stewartville, Minnesota. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Loren on Oct. 4, 2016; and her brother, John.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Robert Bailey officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday and will continue on Thursday morning for one hour prior to services at church.

Services prearranged and performed by Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.  Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.