Elmer G. Hammersmith, 80, of Remsen passed away at home on Monday December 10, 2007. Elmer was born in Utica on June 24, 1927 the son of Elmer and Lillian (Speake) Hammersmith. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. At St. Joseph's Church, Utica on August 11, 1951 Elmer married Marie Bick, a blessed union of 56 years. In December of 1948 he was appointed to the Utica Fire Department and served as a firefighter until his retirement in January 1978. For the past 60 years he was also employed with the Heintz Funeral Home. He was a parishioner of St. Joseph's & St. Patrick's Church, Utica and St. Patrick's Church, Forestport, a 60 year member of the Knights of St. John Commandry #41 and the Federation of Police and Fire retirees. Elmer is survived by his wife, Marie, a daughter and son-in-law; Donna and Dick Lehman, Remsen, two sons and daughters-in-law; Ronald and Christine Hammersmith, Imperial, PA, and Robert and Maryjo Hammersmith, Little Falls, NY, a cousin; Betty Sychtysz and husband Ted of Marcy. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and many in-laws, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a great granddaughter; Faith Marie Hammersmith on June 22, 2007. Mr. Hammersmith's funeral will be held on Thursday December 13, 2007 at 9:15 from the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica and at 10:00 from St. Joseph's ? St. Patrick's Church, Utica. Burial will be in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Yorkville. Calling hours at the funeral home are Wednesday from 4-8. Those so wishing may make donations to the St. Jude's Research Hospital in Elmer's memory.