Gerald Lee Herman

Jerry was born to Rose and Raymond Herman in Minneapolis on August 15th, 1938. He spent his childhood in Northeast Minneapolis getting into good-natured mischief with his best buddies, friends he remained devoted to throughout his life.

While working at Warren Cadillac in Minneapolis, Jerry met Barbara Wefel, who worked in the cafeteria. One payday, as she served lunch to the mechanics, she asked who might take her out that evening. Jerry quickly and enthusiastically volunteered, beginning a love story that would endure a lifetime.

They were married in November 1963, following a period of time apart while Jerry served in the United States Army. Their marriage was marked by deep love and devotion. After the passing of his beloved wife, Jerry often shared that not an hour went by without thoughts of her beautiful face, nor a night without dreams of her. Though he remained here on Earth, his heart was forever with her in heaven.

He proudly served in the United States Army, dedicating many years to his country and achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. Jerry spent over 40 years working as an auto mechanic and service advisor. He also served as president of his local Teamsters Union 974, a role he held with pride. Above all, his favorite and most cherished role was that of a devoted Grampy/Papa.

Jerry spent much of his youth hunting and fishing in the Longville area. In 1968, he and Barb purchased a plot of land on Mann Lake, and it wasn't long before Jerry convinced his dear friend, Darold Moore, to buy the property next door. Over the years, the two families built a lifetime of cherished memories at "The Lake."

Jerry had many passions in life: his family, his friends, fishing, travel, and reading about World War II (he became an avid reader in retirement). He was a man known for his many stories, always entertaining his family and friends with anecdotes about his long and eventful life. He traveled to all 50 states and never met a stranger along the way!

Jerry lived for his family. While Barb was the very air he breathed, his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter had his whole heart. He was infinitely proud of his children, Kim and Lee, and considered himself blessed beyond belief by his grandchildren and great-grandchild. Everyone in the family knew that if they needed anything, Grampy/Papa would be the first to help. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his family.

Along with his bride, he was welcomed into heaven by his parents and several close friends and family members. From there, he now smiles upon his children, Kim Herman and Lee (Lindsay) Herman; Swiss daughter, Claudia Groth; grandchildren, Bryn (Zachary) Hatten Virnig, Emily (Cole Mazumdar) Hatten, Anya Hatten, Lane Wagner, and Lana Herman; great-grandchild, Antonia Virnig; and countless other friends and family members.