Born in Moscow, Idaho, Herb moved to Salem in the late 1940s. He attended Salem High School, before transferring to South Salem High School, proudly graduating in its first class in 1955. As the star quarterback, Herb led South Salem to a State Championship in 1954. His athletic talent earned him a full scholarship to the University of Oregon, where he played football for one year before transferring to Willamette University, graduating in 1959.
After college, Herb served in the Air National Guard and then began a successful career at US Bank, specializing in automobile dealership financing. He dedicated 21 years to the bank, ultimately serving as Vice President of Marketing. In 1982, he joined Delon Auto Dealership as part owner, Vice President, and General Manager, where he made a significant impact for 25 years.
Beyond his professional achievements, Herb was passionate about collecting and restoring classic farm tractors, especially John Deere. He was known for his incredible handiwork, tackling any job with skill and determination. An avid runner, skier, and dancer in his youth, Herb cherished the active lifestyle he shared with his family.
Many will remember Herb from his time living in a turn of the century farmhouse on Fairmount Hill, but it was on a hobby farm with a menagerie of animals where he spent the last 35 years. He is survived by his loving wife, Maryann; his children, Jennifer, Jeff, and Jessica; as well as many friends and family members who will deeply miss him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hank and Gladys, and his sister, Shirley Mawicke.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Friends of Felines or the Oregon Humane Society, in honor of Herb's love for animals.
