November 17, 1943 to November 13, 2015

Harry W. “Skip” Hem passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, November 13 in Downey after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Skip was born on November 17, 1943 in Natick, Massachusetts. At the age of 10, Skip and his family moved to Seattle, Washington. After graduating from Bothell High School, Skip joined the Navy and proudly served his country for 5 years.

Skip married the love of his life, Cindy Force, on July 20, 1968. Skip and Cindy were blessed with two children, Lori and Michael.

A graduate of California State University, Los Angeles, Skip had a successful career as an executive in the furniture and woodworking industries and held many executive roles in organizations supporting the industries.

Most important to Skip was his love of God, his Family and the Church. Skip’s family have many wonderful memories of the annual camping trips with their beloved husband, father and grandfather.

Skip is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Cindy and his children, Lori (Rob) Ettinger and Michael (Lisa) Hem and adored grandchildren, Emma and Grace Ettinger and Gavin and Madison Hem.

Skip was preceded in death by his father, Harry W. Hem, Sr. and mother, Peggy Shugrue Hem. He is also survived by his sisters Susan, Melody, Margaret and Heather and brothers Oscar, John, Chris and Tom.

Skip will be greatly missed by family and friends, but our memories of Skip will always be with us.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, December 2nd at 11:00 a.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church in Downey. A private interment will be held the following day at Riverside National Cemetery.

The family requests memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org/donate.

Risher Mortuary & Cremation Service are Funeral Directors. Please leave the family condolences at www.rishermortuary.com.