Julie Lynn Hemker
Wednesday, May 18, 1960
Date of Death:
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Age:
64 years old
Julie Lynn Hemker
Julie Hemker (Romo), 64, of Rochester, formerly of Wanamingo, passed away on January 1, 2025, after a brief battle with brain cancer. Her final moments were surrounded by the love, laughter, and presence of those nearest and dearest to her.
Julie led an exceptionally full life, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she encountered. As a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, aunt, coach and nurse, Julie’s love and dedication were felt deeply by all who knew her.
Julie married the love of her life, Jeffrey Hemker, on October 1, 1984. Together, they raised three beautiful daughters: Jayme and Adam Nickelsen (Kailee and Gavin); Jessica Hemker (Blake and Brody); Josie and Aaron Brennhofer (Rylie and Keaton). Julie cherished a close-knit bond with her sisters Peggy (Tom) Weeks, their children and families; Marci (Mike) Goodman, their children and families; their friendship was a source of great joy and strength throughout her life. She is also survived by her loving in-laws: Sean Hemker, Jim and Lisa Hemker, and their children, and Jeff Berg and his children and a bonus sister, Linda Olson.
Julie had faith in God and wanted her family and friends to know that all anyone needs is the faith the size of a mustard seed to experience His power and presence.
One of Julie’s greatest gifts was her ability to make everyone she met feel included and special. Her infectious positivity was boundless, and she always ensured that no one around her was left out of the fun. “No fun-suckers allowed” was her motto, and she lived every day with that joyful energy.
Julie had an adventurous spirit and was always eager to travel and explore new places, especially with those she loved. Whether near or far, she made every journey memorable.
One of Julie’s greatest joys was watching her grandchildren play sports. Whether on the sidelines or directly coaching, Julie’s positive influence and encouragement were evident in every game, practice, and competition.
Julie was preceded in death by her mother, Avis Skjeie; father, Orvin Romo; brother, Randy Romo; father-in-law, Pete Hemker; mother-in-law, Marlene Hemker and sister in-law, Wendy Berg.
Julie’s legacy will continue through her family, friends, and all who were touched by her warmth and compassion.
A celebration of her life will be held at Macken Funeral home on January 9, 2025 from 5-8pm.
Sign Guestbook
Send your condolences to the family of Julie Lynn Hemker.
At the family's request, Macken Funeral Home will publish your message on this website.
Condolences
The family of Julie Lynn Hemker has received the following condolences.
Heaven Gained Another Guardian Angel
My Mother always enjoyed an old comic strip named Family Circus. One of their recurring bits that was a particular favorite of hers were "guardian angels" that watched over us. I didn't think much about it at the time. But several times I found myself this holiday season sitting alone next to the Christmas tree in front of the fireplace with my grandkids Christmas stockings hanging from the mantel thinking about all the "ghosts" in the room...all of those "guardian angels" that have passed before us, but fill our hearts and memories with treasures from the past.
The room recently got a bit fuller with Julie's passing. She was such a loving and compassionate soul who dedicated her life as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, nurse and coach to caring for and inspiring others well preparing her for her new role as a guardian angel. All of us who were blessed to know and love her will carry her forward in their hearts and memories for as long at they beat. And will be just a little bit more secure for having her watching over us as we face the challenges of the mortal world.
Julie was simply a wonderful colleague and co-worker during our days together at St. Mary's. Always upbeat and happy, she was a joy to be around each and every shift. I cannot imagine how tough the loss of this 'class-act' woman must be on her family. Julie will certainly be missed by all of us fortunate enough to have worked with this kind and caring soul.
Just want to let all of you to know how sorry I am for your loss. Love you Cheryl (Jeff’s Cousin) ✌🏼❤️
so saddened to hear this news - such a sweetheart. we all had so much fun back in the day. Much love and prayers to you and your family Jeff.
My dear sweet Julie! You will be greatly missed by your loving family and fiends. So many memories made in our childhood years that I will treasure. Your love for life was emense and its obvious you instilled this in your 3 beautiful daughters and grandchildren. Now,fly with the angels.
Love to your always
Cindy
So very sorry to hear about Julie’s illness and passing. She was a kind, caring woman. We were roommates before marriage and kids. Julie was nice to everyone she met and a lot of fun to be around. A memorable road trip to Texas with friends comes to mind! Though we lost touch through the years, the memories of our youthful antics always bring a smile to my face! My sincere condolences to the Hemker family.
Kim (Beaupre) Brossoit
I am so sorry for the loss of Julie. The last time I saw her, I was at work and she was a patient and she asked one of her daughters (who I did not know), "Is that Jill?" who said, "How would I know?" and then she waved me into her room to say hi and ask me how things were going and tell me what was going on with her. I truly enjoyed working with her, and am so very sad for her life cut short. Cancer stinks. My condolences and prayers for your family. I wish I knew the right things to say to make this easier. I'm so happy to hear that she was surrounded by so much love and family her last days.
So so sorry about your loss
My heart goes out to Julie's family during this difficult time. We are so saddened to hear of her passing. My family crossed paths with Julie back when she coached our daughter in the Rochester All Stars for many years. Julie was so kind, compassionate, and led with grace. Wishing her family comfort and peace in the days ahead. Our deepest sympathies, Terri, Ray, & Alexa
Having the opportunity to work alongside Julie in the St. Mary's Emergency Department will forever remain in my heart. I am saddened to hear of her passing. I wish Julie's family much comfort during this time of sorrow. Julie had a light within her that she shared with others through her joy and compassion.
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Julie. Working with her in the ED was truly a pleasure. I remember her as a kind, smart, skilled nurse. Jayme, Peggy, and all who loved Julie I send love and condolences.
So sad to hear of Julie’s passing.
John and I had the privilege of playing coed softball in our younger days, with Julie and Jeff. Julie was always full of energy and contagious laughter and smiles!
What a beautiful gifted woman who has left this earth but I can imagine she’s drawn so many souls around her!
Such a wonderful lady,
Teresa and John Allers
I worked with Julie in the St. Mary's ED and the Admission and transfer office. She was a beautiful soul. Always smiling, always upbeat, even if she was having a bad day. She was a real lady. I am so sorry to hear of her death. Heaven took our angel that was here with us on earth. I am a better person to have known her. Prayers and sympathy to her family. Nancy Kahnke
Julie was an amazing lady! I first met Julie when she was my daughter’s cheerleading coach. I had the privilege of knowing Julie many years as being a Nurse. She was the absolutely sweetest and kindest person I’ve met and a fabulous nurse!!
I am so sorry for your loss. Julie was always the sweetest nicest person you will ever meet. I remember RYCA with her and All Stars and I was so excited to see her as a nurse at OMC. I will remember her smile forever. She was one of the great ones.