John Hammack was struck and killed by a burning snag as he cleared hazardous trees during a wildfire at the Mt. Washington Wilderness Area of the Deschutes National Forest in Oregon. Born and raised in Sisters, Oregon, he was an experienced tree faller and firefighter who loved being outdoors.

He was an accomplished rodeo rider, winning the All Around at Sisters Rodeo in 1974, 1977, 1980 and 1984. He competed professionally all over the country and won the Champion Bareback Riding title at the “The World’s Toughest Rodeo” at Madison Square Garden in New York City. He shared his love of rodeo with his children and grandchildren, who went on to compete in the sport.

He was hardworking, well respected, and a man of his word. His strong faith guided his actions.

He is survived by his mother, Dona Hammack; his wife, Maura Hammack; son, John Tyler Hammack; daughter, Kelli Jo Hammack; grandchildren, Taylie, Taitem, T.C., Taelor and Hazey; brothers, Jack and Jim; sisters, Patty and Denise; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Milton Hammack; brothers, Dick and Lyle Hammack; and sister, Becky Hammack.