Nov. 9, 1939 – Sept. 9, 2024
Northborough – It is with great sadness that the family of John E. Herrmann, PH.D., share the notice of his passing on September 9, 2024, at 84 years old, after a long battle with lung fibrosis.
John was the beloved husband of 54 years to Rose M. (Wagner) Herrmann who was by his side as he passed away at home.
In addition to his devoted wife, Rose, John is survived by his beloved brother-in-law, Robert Sharp of Annapolis, MD; his beloved nephews and niece, James Griffiths of Odenton, MD, Alison Bentley and husband Michael of Centreville, VA and John Griffiths of Glen Burnie, MD. He also leaves his beloved and faithful dog, Rane. John was preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Kathryn Herrman and his beloved sister, Janet Sharp. He was also predeceased by German shepherds, Fraulein, Lady, Barsha, Kenya, Brooke, and Toby and by his cat, Nosey; all who were considered more as children than as pets to John and Rose.
He loved all dogs, especially their German shepherds and his cat. John and Rose were avid bicyclists. He loved travel, make clocks and keep up with sports. John looked forward to enjoying good food. He himself was an excellent cook and found pleasure in sharing his gourmet meals with friends and relatives. John found solace in gardening and was most proud of his beautiful roses and assorted beds. He had a wonderful sense of humor, was a talented artist and cherished his friends.
John graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University in N. J. prior to receiving his Ph.D. From the University of Wisconsin in Madison, Wisconsin. He then worked at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, Massachusetts, where he became an Assistant Professor of Microbiology. John then spent four years at Abbott Laboratories in North Chicago, Illinois, as a Senior Scientist and Laboratory Head in Infectious Disease. With a strong interest in academia, he became a Professor of Medicine, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology at University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, Massachusetts. He loved his work. After retiring, John continued as a Research Professor at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine in North Grafton, Massachusetts.
A memorial service will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Baypath Humane Society, 500 Legacy Farms N, Hopkinton, MA 01748 or to the German Shepherd Rescue of New England, Inc., P.O. Box 299, Wayland, MA 01778.
To leave an online condolence, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com.
Arrangements are under the care of Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough, MA 01532.