James "Jim" Hempel, age 78, of Dennis Village, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Orange, New Jersey, on April 18, 1946, to Carl and Betty Jean (Calkins) Hempel, Jim grew up with a strong sense of community and a love for adventure. He graduated from Willimantic High School in Connecticut before pursuing his passion for history and language, earning his BA in History and German from Heidelberg College in Ohio.
 
After receiving his Vietnam draft notice, Jim decided to take a different path by enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1968, where he proudly served for four years. His service during Vietnam ignited a lifelong love for the Navy, leading him to dedicate 28 years to his country and rising to the esteemed rank of Commander. His career as a naval aviator brought him to every corner of the globe, from California to Hawaii, Norway to England, alongside his beloved bride of 51 years, Kathleen “Katie” O’Keefe Fowler Hempel. Together, they created cherished friendships at every new station, bonds that remained strong throughout their lives.
 
Jim and Katie were blessed with two daughters, Meagan (Hempel) Lambton of East Dennis, MA and Laura Hempel of Charleston, SC. Jim took great pride in being a “girl dad” and he adored Meagan and Laura, constantly marveling at their achievements and guiding them through life’s adventures. His love for his family extended even further when, in 2015, Jim became “Donk” to his grandson, Asher James Lambton, followed by his granddaughter, Reese Marjorie Lambton. Being a grandfather brought Jim immeasurable joy and he cherished every moment with his grandchildren.
 
Following his retirement from the Navy, Jim and Katie settled in Dennis Village, a place Jim lovingly referred to as his favorite on earth. He became a beloved fixture of the community as the owner of the Dennis Village Mercantile, affectionately known as “The Merc.” Jim’s warmth, sense of humor and genuine care for others made him a familiar and cherished face. Whether he was behind the counter at The Merc or enjoying time outdoors biking, skiing, or tinkering in his yard, Jim embraced life with enthusiasm and kindness.
 
Jim is predeceased by his parents, Carl and Betty Jean, as well as his sister, Betty Jean “BJ” Boyer. His legacy of love, service and friendship will live on in the hearts of his wife, Katie, his daughters, Meagan and Laura, his son-in-law Mark, grandchildren, many cousins, nieces, nephews and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
 
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jim’s honor can be made to the Wounded Warrior Foundation, an organization close to his heart.
 
Jim will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his country and his community. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, whose presence will be deeply missed but forever cherished.
 
Relatives and friends may call at the Hallett Funeral Home, 273 Station Ave., South Yarmouth, MA on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 from 4-6 P.M.  A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 1, 2024 at 10:00 A.M. in Dennis Union Church, Route 6A, Dennis, MA.  Interment in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne, MA will be private.
             
 
            

Katie, Megan, and Laura, I am saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. My memories of Jim are of a caring and compassionate man who was beyond proud of his family. Your family added so much happiness to the Wixon community. I hope your wonderful memories bring some peace to all of you.

Katie , Meg and Laura, We are so deeply saddened by this news. We will always remember Jim teaching our son the value of a strong work ethic, the importance of kindness and the foundation of doing a good “job”. The Merc and your family have a special place with us and heaven has a new angel for sure. With sympathy and caring Linda Vinny Michael and Gina

Katie , Meg and Laura, We are so deeply saddened by this news. We will always remember Jim teaching our son the value of a strong work ethic, the importance of kindness and the foundation of doing a good “job”. The Merc and your family have a special place with us and heaven has a new angel for sure. With sympathy and caring Linda Vinny Michael and Gina