Redlands, CA - The Rev. Canon Louis E. Hemmers, beloved husband, father, grandfather, priest, and community leader, passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2026 peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. A man of deep faith, warm humor, and generous spirit, Lou lived a life devoted to service—to God, to the church, and to the communities he loved.

Lou was born in Elkhart, Indiana, and graduated from Elkhart High School. From an early age he possessed a remarkable voice and presence that led him into broadcasting. He worked as a narrator and announcer on both local and nationally aired radio programs originating in Detroit, including Scoop Ryan, Cub Reporter, Stairway to the Stars, The Green Hornet, The Lone Ranger, and Know Your FBI. His talent for storytelling and communication would remain a hallmark of his life.

Lou's curiosity about the world extended beyond the microphone. Early in life he earned his pilot's license, reflecting a spirit of adventure and a lifelong eagerness to explore

He served his country in the United States Army, including 18 months in Korea, where he also worked with the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service. After completing his military service, Lou continued in broadcasting and television. He became a familiar personality on weather, news, and children's programs on WSJV-TV in the Elkhart/South Bend area. He later served as staff announcer for WUOM-FM and news director for WPAG in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Lou graduated from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and went on to become news director for WXEX-TV in Richmond, Virginia. Yet a deeper calling soon emerged. In 1962, he chose to pursue theological studies and entered Seabury-Western Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois. Upon graduation he was ordained a priest in the Episcopal Church, beginning a ministry that would shape countless lives.

His first parish was as vicar of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Marysville, Kansas. He later served as rector of St. George's Episcopal Church in Belleville, Illinois, and was appointed Archdeacon of Alton, later named honorary archdeacon. During his time in Illinois, he also served the wider community as chairman of the governor's Equal Opportunity Administrative Committee and hosted Sunday Morning, a 30-minute news program on KMOX-TV in St. Louis.

Lou later became rector of Calvary Episcopal Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Eventually he and his family were called to Trinity Episcopal Church in Redlands, California, where Lou served faithfully as rector for 20 years. Under his leadership, Trinity grew as a place of worship, service, and community. He was named honorary canon by the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles in 1993 in recognition for contributions to the larger church. Upon his retirement he was honored with the title Rector Emeritus, a reflection of the deep love and respect held for him by his parish.

Beyond the church, Lou remained deeply involved in civic life in Redlands. He served three terms on the Board of Managers of Plymouth Village, contributed to the Redlands 2000 Committee, and was a proud 15-year member of the Sunrise Rotary Club. He also led four pilgrimages to the Holy Land, experiences that enriched the faith of those who traveled with him and deepened his own lifelong love of scripture and sacred history.

Lou shared his life with his beloved wife of more than 67 years, Joan O. Hemmers, whom he married on August 23, 1958, at Grace Episcopal Cathedral in Topeka, Kansas. Together they built a remarkable partnership grounded in faith, service, curiosity, and love. Their marriage was a testament to enduring devotion and shared purpose.

He is survived by his loving wife Joan; his children Margaret (Megg) Giufurta and her husband Chaz of Richmond, VA; Kathleen Liess and her husband Tobias of Redlands, CA.; his daughter-in-law Lysandra Jones-Hemmers of Prescott, AZ.; and his cherished grandchildren Alison Gomon-Bowling, John Gomon,and Makenna Liess. He was preceded in death by his son Mark Hemmers.

Lou and Joan shared a love of travel that took them around the world—from Europe to the South Pacific and throughout the Holy Land—adventures that reflected their curiosity about the world and their appreciation for its people and cultures. Lou also had a deep passion for golf, a game he enjoyed playing both at home and across the globe. Whether on familiar local courses or fairways in far-off places, the game brought him great joy and many cherished friendships.

Those who knew Lou remember a gifted storyteller, a compassionate pastor, and a man who never missed an opportunity to connect with others. Whether preaching from the pulpit, greeting parishioners at the door, or sharing a story from his broadcasting days, he brought warmth, humor, and authenticity to every conversation.

Above all, Lou lived his faith through kindness, service, and joy. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, the communities he strengthened, and the family he loved so deeply.

A funeral service celebrating Lou's life will be held on Friday, March 27, at 10:30 a.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 419 S. 4th St., Redlands, Ca. 92373

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, Trinity Episcopal Camp, or the Trinity Episcopal Altar Guild. Contributions can be mailed to:

Trinity Episcopal Church

419 S. 4th St.

Redlands, CA 92373