Honoring Rick Herman

Richard (Rick) Herman, 75, died Tuesday April 16, 2024. He was born in Connellsville, PA September 10, 1948 to Albert L. Herman Sr. and Margaret Flanigan Herman. His family owned and operated the sawmill, A.L. Herman Lumber Co.

Rick was educated at Giebel High School in Connellsville before attending Gannon University where he graduated with a degree in Accounting. Rick wasn’t fond of the cold weather in Pennsylvania so after graduation he took a job at Peat Marwick in Miami, FL as a CPA. He was in the Navy for six years where he made lifelong friendships. In 1976 he was offered a job at Harbor Branch Oceanographic as an accountant. He eventually worked his way to become President and CEO of Harbor Branch, retiring in 2004. Rick loved Harbor Branch and the employees there, many of whom he considered close friends. 

Rick is survived by his wife of 53 years, Debby Conlon Herman. He was a loving and devoted father to Michelle Morris (spouse Jeremy), Jason (spouse Araceli), Michael (spouse Erin), William, and Jonathan (spouse Lilly). Rick took great pride in being a grandfather and was fondly referred to as “G” by his eight grandchildren, Kylie, Lilly Grace, Sammy, Liam, Henley, Charlie, Hayden, and August. Rick is survived by seven siblings: Barbara Knight (spouse Marvin), Ronald Herman (fiancée Paula Harvey), Carolyn Cochrane, Thomas Herman (spouse Pam Herman), David Herman (spouse Colleen Herman), Larry Herman (spouse Martina), Jeff Herman (spouse Marianne Herman) and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by three siblings: Mary Herman, Albert Herman Jr., and William Herman.

Rick will be remembered for his immense love of the entire Herman family, his generosity and kindness to all people whether it be a stranger or beloved family member, his humor and zest for having fun, being the “G” whisperer, and his great passion for the Steelers (especially watching games with his sons). Rick was a free spirit and did things his own way, a trait we often laughed about but deeply respected. It was unique and genuine to the great man he was.

There will be a private family arrangement to celebrate Rick’s life. In lieu of flowers please consider making a small donation to help the family with end of life expenses.