Dr. Herbert “Herb” P. Lash, 94, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, August 30, 2026. Herb was born to Benjamin and Mary Lashinsky on August 7, 1932, in Cleveland, Ohio. Herb attended Ohio State University College of Medicine. He married the love of his life, Ruby Boxerbaum, on June 21, 1956. Herb enlisted with the United States Air Force as a Captain serving at Forbes Air Force Base, finishing his medical residency.
In 1963, Herb relocated to Rockford, Illinois, and served the Rockford community as a pediatrician with Canfield Clinic (now known as Brookside) for many years before retirement. He also helped Crusader Clinic from time to time. Herb served as the president of the SIDS Association, as well as the American Lung Association throughout his career. He also taught periodically at UIC Medical School in Rockford. It became quite normal for Herb to run into patients who remembered him well into their adulthood. He truly had a gift of helping children and making a difference in their lives.
Outside of his passion for serving his community, he enjoyed volunteering with Anderson Gardens, the Literacy Center, and the Easter Seals. He had a special talent for gardening, as in his younger years he almost became a botanist. In the quiet hours, Herb was a Judaic Scholar through self-study.
He is survived by his wife, Ruby Lash; sons, Jeff (Paula) Lash and Mike (Jennifer) Lash; grandchildren, Ivy (Jetha Chan) Lash and Ben Lash; many special cousins.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Martin Lash; parents, Benjamin and Mary Lashinsky; maternal and paternal grandparents.
