Thale Herman

Born one of three leap year babies on February 29, 1948, in Marquette to Alphonse and Louise (White) Herman, Thale was a lifelong resident of the area who embodied the spirit of the Upper Peninsula Outdoors.

A graduate of Marquette Senior High School, Class of 1966, Thale joined the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era, serving his country with honor. He earned the bronze star and other commendations during his tour where he served with River Division 579 “The Fighting Dragons” before being honorably discharged. He then pursued his education at Ferris State University, earning a bachelors degree in automotive technology and repair. Before graduating Thale married Elizabeth “Betty” (Cass) Herman on September 1, 1973.

Upon graduating, Thale returned to Marquette, where he began working at Carroll Motor Supply before transitioning to a career as a corrections officer for the State of Michigan. Later, he found his calling as a heavy equipment mechanic with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, where he worked until his retirement.

Thale was a true woodsman, an avid hunter and fisherman who had many memorable times on the water and in the woods with friends and family. He made many trips to Wyoming chasing whitetail and fishing trips to Canada with his sons, grandson and longtime friends Glen Alexander and Tim Hopkins. Thale looked forward to Deer hunting in the fall followed by ice fishing and turkey hunting in the spring. He also had a desire for trapping, focusing on fisher, beaver, muskrat, and mink. His knowledge and passion of the wilderness and his ability to fix anything made him a man who could navigate any situation. He had a love for the great outdoors and enjoyed sharing it, particularly with children. He volunteered every year at the DNR fishpond during the U.P. State Fair, patiently teaching young anglers the sport of fishing

In retirement, he purchased land in Northern Wisconsin dedicating his time with family and friends building a one of kind hand crafted log cabin from the ground up, cutting down the trees and milling the wood himself–a testament to his determination, skill, and love for craftsmanship.

Thale is survived by his wife, Betty Herman of Marquette; his two sons, David (Shari) Herman of Menasha, WI, and Jeffrey Herman of Hollandtown, WI; his grandson, Cooper Herman; his sister, Julie Paquet of Marquette; his brother,

Edward Herman of Sault Ste. Marie, MI; and his sister, Marge (Garth) Jones of St. Clair Shores, MI. Along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Tom and Carl Herman, Terry Ryan, as well as Darlene and Karen.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice.

Friends may call at Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services on April 11th, beginning at 10:00 am until the time of service at 12:00 pm. Rev. Kevin Taylor will officiate. A reception will follow in the funeral home reception room. Interment will be made in the Park Cemetery.

Online condolences may be expressed at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.