Mike Memmer

A homeowner since 2008, Mike Memmer found renewed dignity, independence, and hope through a home that supported both his needs and his role as a devoted father.

Mike’s journey was shaped by extraordinary hardship and resilience. In 2004, a simple cut led to bacterial meningitis, leaving him in a coma for 11 days and ultimately costing him both of his legs. He lost the job he had held for 18 years, yet refused to give up. He chose, instead, to hold onto hope even in the face of life-altering change.

Not long after, Mike faced another devastating loss when his daughter Hannan’s mother passed away. Mike remained a steady presence for Hannan, guiding her as she grew into a determined and compassionate young girl with big dreams of becoming a veterinarian. Despite their strength, their small apartment limited their comfort and independence, making daily life more challenging than it needed to be.
When Mike discovered Habitat for Humanity, it marked the beginning of a new chapter.

 

He committed fully to the process, completing his sweat equity hours and building alongside volunteers who quickly became part of his support system. Their Habitat home provided accessibility and space, including providing Hannah with her own room. 

After Mike’s passing last year, his daughter reached out to Habitat, seeking guidance on how to pass along the home that had meant so much to him. For Hannan, it was more than a house with accessibility features. It was the place that gave her dad the dignity, independence, and stability he needed to truly live.