It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of J. Mark “Smokey” Hemer, who passed away on July 8, 2026 at the age of 75.

 

He was born on May 21, 1951 in Eau Claire, WI to John L. Hemer and Jane E. (Cornwall) Hemer. The family later moved to Mondovi, WI, and in 1958, relocated to Medford.

 

Smokey was a 1969 Graduate of Medford Senior High School. He went on to attend the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire from 1969 - 1972, and Milwaukee Area Technical College - School of Mortuary Science from 1972 - 1974, where he received his Associate of Arts Degree in Funeral Service.

 

In 1974, Smokey joined the family business at Hemer Funeral Service, Inc. in Medford, as a fourth generation funeral director, and served as President of the firm until his retirement in 2006. He took great pride in his work, and was honored to support numerous Medford area families through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

 

On April 12, 1979 he married Julie (Schultz) Hemer, and she survives. In their retirement they alternated their time between Medford and Sun Lakes, AZ, and in 2022, relocated their summer residence to Madison, WI.

 

He is survived by his daughters, Amanda (Joseph) Viviani of Madison, WI; Rachel (Angela) Hemer Chambers of Denver, CO; grandsons, Luca Viviani, Dominic Hemer Chambers, Ian & Tristan Kersten; brother, Jeff (Kathy) Hemer of Medford, and beloved nieces and nephews.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Jack Ritchie.

 

The family will hold a private committal service on Friday, August 21, with a public Celebration of Life to follow at the Medford VFW. Friends may call any time between 2:00-6:00pm. Attendees are encouraged to share their stories and favorite memories of Smokey.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to the Taylor County Humane Society or the Cardiovascular Research Center at the University of Wisconsin - Madison.

 

Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the time we shared with him. His love, strength, and legacy will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.