Rowland Richard "Rick" Herpel Jr.

HERPEL, Rowland Jr. "Rick," age 66, of Midlothian, Va., passed away suddenly Friday, March 6, 2015. He was born in Darby, Pa. and raised in Philadelphia. He attended Most Blessed Sacrament (MBS) Elementary School and graduated from West Catholic Boys High School in 1967. He then proudly served four years in the U.S. Navy (1967 to 1971). Mr. Herpel worked for the federal government for 40 years. He spent 19 years working for the Navy Industrial Supply in Philadelphia and 16 years at Defense Supply Center/DLA Aviation, Richmond. In April 2013 he worked at Fort Lee Headquarters, Defense Management Agency Resource Management Division. He served as a Senior Staff Quality Assurance Specialist. Rick was involved in the development and acquisition training courses and materials for the DCMA quality assurance workforce of more than 3,000 employees. He retired in January 2015. He enjoyed being at the beach and spending time with his wife and family at Tybee Island, Ga. Rick finally fulfilled his wife's dream and purchased a home in Murrell's Inlet, S.C. He loved maintaining his home and was most proud of his impeccable "green lawn." His favorite pastimes included reading, history and music. He was never happier than when he was surrounded by his family and friends. He was active in the Walton Park Community and volunteered for the Midlothian High School band. For many years in the 1980s, he worked a second job as a limousine driver and had the opportunity to meet many celebrities. He is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years Diana, "Dee"; daughter, Judy (partner, Tommy Braswell and his sons, Joshua and Zackery); son, Christopher (friend, Kimberly Natale); the family cat, Sarabi; sisters, Betty O'Connell and Linda Mitchell; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends. He was known as a "good man" and was well respected by all. A Celebration of Life service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, March 28, 2015 at the Huguenot Chapel of Woody Funeral Home, 1020 Huguenot Rd., Midlothian. A reception will immediately follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations made to the Disabled American Veterans in Rick's memory would be appreciated. Interment will be private at Arlington National Cemetery. Online condolences to WoodyFuneralHome.com.