Remembering Susan Hammer and Her Love of Oregon

It was with profound sadness that the team at Oregon Environmental Council (OEC) learned of Susan Hammer’s death in August of 2020. Susan had been a champion for OEC for decades, sharing her time and legal expertise, as well as her financial support and her wise advice. She remained committed to a healthy and resilient Oregon throughout her life and was a role model to many of us on staff.

In the spring of 2014, Susan wrote an article for OEC’s newsletter about her decision to include a legacy gift to OEC in her will. It’s with deep gratitude for her generosity and friendship that we share her story again here.

My parents grew up in South Dakota and came to Oregon after WWII. I grew up in the Willamette Valley, picking berries and beans, spending vacations at the Oregon coast and skiing at Hoodoo and Mt. Bachelor. Oregon was all I knew.

It was not until I lived elsewhere, traveled and returned to this place that I had the OHMYGOD realization about Oregon. The natural beauty, mild climate and dramatic change of seasons came alive. The color was more vivid, and my love and appreciation grew stronger.

And, as I grow older, I feel that way even more. Every fall is more amazing than the last. The Gorge has never looked as beautiful as it did just this week. The beach gives me renewal and stimulation. The farmlands give me the calm, comfortable feeling that all is well.

How did I get so lucky to live in paradise? What was the stroke of fate that made Oregon my homeland, and not South Dakota? How do I give back?

I became aware of Oregon Environmental Council in the 70s and more involved in the early 80s when I worked on saving Ross Island. Through OEC I have met smart, committed people who work to protect this amazing place. OEC has been out in front on issues I’ve cared a lot about for decades. I count on OEC for advocacy and shaping public opinion on issues that matter most; I trust them to continue.

I want future generations of Oregonians to experience the joy and wonder of my Oregon.

This is why OEC is in my will.

The team at OEC continues to mourn Susan’s death, but we remain deeply grateful for her love of Oregon, her generosity of spirit and her faith in OEC to protect this special place she called home.

If you are interested in learning more about how you too can leave a legacy gift to OEC, please contact Teke Dillender at 503-222-1963 x119 or teked@oeconline.org.