Legends of Michiana: Jerry Hammes

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About

One of the founding fathers of WNIT, Jerry Hammes has left an indelible mark on the city of South Bend and beyond. Born into a family that personified the American dream, Jerry was a third generation Ford dealer who not only grew the family business, but also enhanced the community through his philanthropic and civic endeavors. Through his service on countless economics and not-for-profit organizations within the region and around the world, his generosity has been felt far and wide.

John Bowling, President of Olivet Nazarene University said “I think if it were possible to dust the world for fingerprints today, we would find the fingerprints of Jerry Hammes in thousands of places; in schools, in hospitals, in churches, in neighborhoods, and particularly in the lives of thousands of young people, many of whom never ever got to meet him, but he has left an imprint on.”

The word “Legend” is often defined as a collection of stories about an admirable person. Jerry’s impact on the community went far beyond business. He routinely gave back to others by donating his time, expertise, finances and his belief.

Jerry believes in the citizens and institutions of South Bend in a way that would forever endear him to this city, and for that Jerry is known as “The Believer.” It was his ability to believe in others, see the good in everyone and help them develop the belief in their selves to become leaders. That truly makes him a “Legend of Michiana.”

Underwritten by

Billie & David Bankoff
Bishop McNamara Catholic School
Anne & Dan Crossen
Mary Pat & Bob Deputy
Ford Piquette Avenue Plant
Gibson
Melissa & Thomas Grubb
Holy Cross College
Holy Cross Village at Notre Dame
Jordan Automotive
Kankakee County Museum
LaSalle Grill
Connie & Steve McTigue
Marian High School
Peacock & Company
Lorrie & Bill Schmuhl
Schobert Snyder Household
Sisters of the Holy Cross
Eve Sobol
Steven Goldberg, CPA
Studebaker National Museum
The Stanley Cark School
Women's Care Center