Peter J Herr

Pete was born October 6, 1954, the son of Jacob and Florence (Harris) Herr. He joined half-brothers Gary and Roger Herr and later welcomed a sister Venitia. At the age of five, Pete moved to Centerville with his grandparents Vern and Alma Herr, who raised him. Pete received his education from Centerville Schools, where he enjoyed studying history and playing sports; he graduated in 1973.

Pete was united in marriage to Carolyn Fowler in April 1975 in Cincinnati Iowa. Together, they had one son, Jacob. Pete and Carolyn divorced soon after Jacob was born, but he remained close with his son. One of Pete's favorite memories included taking Jacob over to Grandma Alma Herr's house for homemade pie and a game of "Where's Jacob?" Jacob would hide in the milk crate and pop out with a surprise, "Here I am!" This cherished memory brought a smile to Pete's face and a bout of full-belly laughter all his life and for years after Jacob's untimely death in 2013.

Pete married Kimberly Cavinder in May 1991 in Centerville Iowa. Together, Pete and Kim had one daughter, Jenna. They later divorced. Pete raised his daughter to be curious, independent, and entrepreneurial — but above all, to lend a hand to others and to treat everyone with equal respect, no matter their background, education, or title. One of Pete’s proudest dreams was to see Jenna attend college and earn a degree in business, a dream fulfilled when she graduated from the University of Iowa.

Pete was a longtime resident of Centerville, and his fondest memories were fishing with his cousin, Kurt, or with his friends. Those who spent time with Pete knew him to be generous and witty. He was a hard worker--spending his working years in construction and manufacturing--but he also loved to have fun. Some of his most fun moments were shared with his granddaughter, Aaliyah, who was the light of his life. He was so proud of her.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents who raised him, his siblings, and his son. He is survived by his daughter Jenna Herr and granddaughter, Aaliyah Winder of Chicago.

Pete was cremated by Weerts Funeral Home in Davenport and a private family interment is being planned for a later date. A memorial has been established to the Centerville High School Industrial Tech department. If you were ever a recipient of Pete's generosity, please consider a gift in his honor.