James Edward Herrmann

James E. Herrmann, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2023, at the age of 81, at home in Yucaipa with family by his side. Besides his loving wife Amelia, Jim had great care from his children Dan, Suzy, and other family members at home.

James affectionately known as Jim, was born on September 17, 1942 in Rochester, NY. Jim led a life of service, adventure, and had an unwavering commitment and love for his family. Jimes journey began at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Rochester, NY, followed by his graduation from Gannon University in Erie, PA, with a BA in Buisness. His lifelong dream of flying led him to a distinguished career in the United States Air Force. Jim enlisted in November of 1965 and attended officer training school in San Antonio, Texas, followed by navigator training at McClellan AFB in Sacramento. His first duty assignment was at Osan Air Force Base in South Korea. From there, he was stationed at Norton Air Force Base in San Bernardino, Ca. He met his wife through her dad who was a civilian worker at the Norton military clothing store. Jim noticed his Irish accent and was invited over to the house, where mutual interests were formed. While stationed at Norton, he served in two flying squadrons as a navigator on the C-141 cargo plane. In this role, he traveled all over the world transporting troops and supplies during and after the Vietnam War. Then after navigators were replaced in 1979 he became a mason in the civil engineer squadron. He missed flying so much that he retrained to be a loadmaster on the C-141 for the last three years of his career. During his time in the military, he treasured the opportunity to explore the world, always curious about anthropology, the stories of peoplre he met, and the history of all the places he visted. And as much as he loved those trips, Jime did not hesitate to volunteer for any job on base that kept him in place so his family never had to move-even if it meant not achieving his next rank. Jim retired in December 1985, as a Captain with over 20 years of service.Jimes passions extended to camping, traveling, and kayaking. Jim loved the outdoors ever since he was a kid when he camped with his family amd the Boy Scounts. So its not surprise that Jim fell in love with California, due to its perfect weather, with snow in the mountains like back home, and sunny beaches just a quick drive away. It offered him the perfect backdrop for skiing and swimming all in one day-activities he loved. His last memoriable trips to Wahinton, Nevada, and Big Bear with his family were a testament to his love for adventure and family bonds. Jim's love for nature and the outdoors was also evident in his involvement in scouting. Jim led St. Anne's Cub Scouts and Troop 38. His enthusiasm inspired his wife, Amelia to become involved with both and Girl Scouts and the Boy Scouts for their kids.

Jim's commitment to the environment also shone through in his volunteer work. This included his participation in bald eagle counts near Silverwood Lake and time spent as a volunteer fire lookout host in the local mountains. He also loved his work as a volunteer fire lookout host in the local mountains. He aslo loved his work as a volunteer adaptive ski insturctor for children and adults with disabilities. He enjoyed his time in the Knights of Columbus at St. Frances X Cabrini Catholic Church. Jim leaves behind his beloved wife Amelia of almost 52 years and the other joys of his life: his five children Daniel, Julie (Jody), Laura Corona (Robert). Tim (Gloria), and Suzy Peterson (Austin)-and his eight grandchildren Joshua, Merici, and David Corona, Erik, and Kayleigh Herrmann, and Lily, Holly, and Harvey Peterson. He also leaves behind his brother Girard, brother-in-law John E Talbot, sister-in-law Pam Talbot, sister-in-law Rozanne Herrmann, brother-in-law Brian Waller, and loving cousins, nieces, nephews, and their families. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Eleanor, sister Mary Waller, niece Melissa Waller, sister-in-law Lynn Herrmann, and brother John Herrmann.

Jim's life will be honbored with a visitation at Weaver-Huges Mortuary in Yuicaipa on January 3rd from 5-7pm, followed by a Rosary. The Funeral Mass will be held on January 4th, at 10:00am, at St. Frances X Cabrini Church in Yucaipa, followed by a reception at The Knights of Columbus Hall across from the church. His final reseting place and burial will be at Riverside National Cemetery on January 5th at 1:30pm.

Jim's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, service, and an unquenchable zest for life. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his warm smile, engaging conversations, and the profound impact he had on all who knew him. Rest in peace, James E Herrmann, a true hero in the hearts of many.

If you'd like, you can donate in Jim's memory to marysmercycenter.org in San Bernardino, Ca, in his honor. They offer free lunches six days a week, free showers and clothes, and have a long-term shelter for women, children, and men.