James D. “Big Jim” Hamm, 83, died April 20, 2017, in his Kempton home.

He was predeceased by his wife Lucille S. (Bailey) Hamm in February 2016.

Born in Albany Township, he was a son of the late Clarence R. and Elsie M. (Merkel) Hamm.

A truck driver for more than 45 years, he worked for the former Loch Brothers Bulk Milk Hauling, New Tripoli, from 1953-67; from 1967-69 for the former Carl O. Loch Fuel Oil, New Tripoli; various steel haulers from 1969-98 and from 2001-13, for Albright’s Mill and Wessner Trucking, Kempton.

He was also part-time employee for Albany Township, where he operated the township mower.

He was a lifetime member of New Bethel Church, Kempton, where he formerly served on the church council and board of directors of the cemetery association.

A 1951 graduate of Kutztown Area High School, he was a U.S. Army veteran serving during peacetime with the 105th Army Transport Corps. at Fort Eustis, Va.

He was also a member of the Kempton and Lynnport fire companies, the Kempton Rod and Gun Club and the Albany Township Historical Society.

His hobbies, when he found the time, were farming, woodworking and operating his antique saw mill.

Survivors include sons Brent James (Carol) Hamm of Kingston, N.Y. and Michael Adam Hamm, at home.

He was predeceased by siblings, Emma Sensinger, Paul, John and Clarence Hamm.

Graveside services and interment will take place at the convenience of the family on the New Bethel Union Cemetery, Kempton.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the church memorial fund, 135 New Bethel Church Road, Kempton, PA 19529.

Condolences for the family may be made at nesterfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements made by Robert S. Nester Funeral Home, Jacksonville, Lynn Township.