Herman F.W. Oberkrom

Herman Fredrick William Oberkrom of Beavercreek, Ohio was born on October 18, 1937, in Cuba, Missouri, to the union of Fred H. and Flora M. Oberkrom. He passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the age of 87.

Growing up in Crawford County, Missouri, he embraced the life of a country boy, contributing to the family farm. After graduating high school, Herman embarked on a journey that took him to Chicago, IL, where he began his career with American Airlines. His deep love for his country led him to serve in the United States Air Force, which he joined in August 1960. During his service, he was assigned to Keesler AFB in Mississippi, where a blind date with a remarkable tall woman changed his life forever. Herman and Mattie Ruth Comans married in June 1961, beginning a beautiful partnership that would span 63 years and take them to various locations including Washington state, Alaska, and Nebraska, before settling in Ohio.

Herman retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the Air Force in 1980, subsequently pursuing a fulfilling career as a Program Manager in the defense sector, a role he continued until his retirement in 2001. Known fondly as "Obie" to his friends, Herman was an avid hunter and maintained his remarkable shooting skills up to the age of 85 and he could still shoot the middle out of a postage stamp. He cherished playing golf, savoring good scotch, and exploring the scenic countryside. His unwavering faith in God was evident in every aspect of his life, particularly in the love he extended to his family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Gloria Pauli (Don), and his parents, Fred H. and Flora M. Oberkrom.

Those who are left to treasure his memory are his loving wife of 63 years Mattie Ruth Oberkrom; his son, Ric Oberkrom (wife Karen); his daughter, Kim M. Nelson (née Oberkrom); and his grandchildren, Richard Nelson (wife Isabella), Stephen Nelson, Simon Oberkrom, and Zachary Fricke (wife Stephanie). He is also survived by loving nieces and nephews, as well as dear friends and neighbors.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the Walnut Grove Country Club.