NORWICH – Kenneth Herman, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 23, 2008. He is survived by Hilda, his loving wife of 61 years, his daughter, Ruth Horton, and her daughter Erica; his son and daughter-in-law Paul and Cherry Herman, and their children Jacob and Rachel; and his brother, Martin. Ken is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins, as well as the many friends he made during his long life.
Ken was born in Wurtzburg, Germany, and emigrated to America at a young age. He served with distinction in the U.S. Army during World War II. Ken’s early training was in agriculture, starting with schooling at Gross-Bressen in Germany, and continuing in this country. He and Hilda bought a farm on the Great Brook Road in South New Berlin in 1949. He was a successful dairy farmer for 25 years before moving to Woods Corners in Norwich and launching his second career as a real estate broker and appraiser. In recent years, Ken and Hilda enjoyed the winter months in Florida, but always made it back north in time to plant the garden.
Ken cared deeply about his community and was involved with many organizations and local institutions. He was a proud member of the Jewish Center of Norwich for 58 years and held several offices including President. He served on both the South New Berlin School Board and the Chenango County Planning. One of Ken’s favorite activities was playing bridge, and he was a long-time participant in the Norwich Duplicate Bridge group. He taught and shared his love of the game with many people over the years. Ken enjoyed his experience as a volunteer tour guide at the Northeast Classic Car Museum, and his almost daily trips to the YMCA. Ken will long be remembered for his loving spirit, generosity, companionship, intelligence and wonderful sense of humor.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Jewish Center of Norwich at 10:30 a.m., on Sunday, Oct. 5.
Donations can be made to the Jewish Center of Norwich, 72 South Broad Street, Norwich, New York, 13815. The Kenneth Herman Memorial Fund will be established and used for improvements to the Synagogue.