Rev. Paul Russell Hammarberg

A Celebration of Life and Interment of Ashes will be held for the Rev. Paul Russell Hammarberg at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 30, at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove. All are welcome.

Paul passed away suddenly on April 30, 2020, at the age of 70.

Born June 18, 1949, in St. Paul to Dr. Rev. Melvin and Ruth Hammarberg, he was the youngest of four children. He graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1971 and Luther Seminary in 1975. 

Paul served as pastor at St. James Lutheran Church in Burnsville, started Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Maple Grove in 1978, and finished his career at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Eden Prairie. 

He and his wife Porat wintered in St. Petersburg, Florida, and also lived in Minnetonka. He spent his retirement years working at Trader Joe’s, golfing with his buddies, and riding his motorcycle. Fond memories included time at the family cabin on Sand Lake, browsing farmer’s markets with Porat in Florida, and teasing his children. 

Paul was an amazing husband, father, and Grandpa. His pastoral background transcended into real life, helping many. His genuine, fun-loving spirit put people around him at ease. 

Survived by his loving wife Porat, children, Megan (Charlie) Hieb, Rachel Hammarberg, granddaughter Nora Hieb, step-children Shiri Cooks, Gali (Keren) Rosenbaum-Cooks, Orr (Mindy) Cooks, Topaz Cooks, and step-grandchildren Rami and Ami Cooks, his siblings Linda (Brian) Willette, Jon (Ruth) Hammarberg, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Mel. 

Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel handled arrangements.