I was hired by Stan and Bob in 1985 as Herb's eventual replacement in the US Army NVL, Air Systems Division, Optics Lab. 
 
Herb was a man of deep convictions and a deep thinker. He brought vast experience, knowledge and a calm coolness to even the most hectic schedule (or customer) we had.  He was respected by his peers and was always a reliable problem-solver.
From standardized testing to novel experimental work, Herb, Nils and me handled hundreds of requests a year.  

The knowledge gained in working with him carried me throughout my  long career with that organization, and I will always be grateful to him for his kindness and the start he gave to me.

Pinned for some time to the office wall over his government issue grey metal desk, hung an open birthday card -I believe from a family member. Inscribed on the inside it said, "...with Silver in your hair and Gold in your teeth..."  to this he scrawled, "and a $15, PR (Purchase Request) out for bids."

Herb, tired of reaching into his own pocket, submitted a PR to the Small Purchase contracts branch to obtain a $15 Thermos bottle.  I think the vendor was Sears.  All he wanted was an inexpensive container for liquid nitrogen for use in the Optics lab, and Small Purchase apparently decided they needed Three(3) bids for it!

This, one of those demoralizing moments so common in government service frustrated him to no end, being as he was a logical sort -with the world providing so few good answers.

What was eventually delivered after a long delay was a stainless steel cylindrical bottle of about a liter capacity with a poorly fitting lid we never liked, and a price tag of some hundreds of dollars.  So much for saving the taxpayers a few bucks, and we had so few bucks to begin with!

My condolences to his family as we mourn his passing, but celebrate a long life, well-lived.

God Bless, Herb.  -Louis Larsen

I have fond memories of Mr Markel...growing up in Newington and spending as much time as could with Leah and sharing dinners around the table in the kitchen.Always such a gentle man,very kind and so eager to share any bit of wisdom about the things of life.Heaven has welcomed home an amazing Patriot,warrior and loving father and husband.I am a better person having known this man and family....blessings and peace to the family and friends.Trust he is at peace
                    Love Tricia Kind(Leatherland)

Nancy and I met Herb and Dee some years ago at the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) Chapter House during one of the events. I don’t recall if it was the chili cookoff or the Christmas Banquet. Doesn’t matter, what’s important, we met Herb and Dee. We immediately felt drawn to them due to their warm and kind nature. 

Nancy and I enjoyed their company and would always seek them out whenever we were at one of the Chapter House events.

One day I ran into Herb at the Chapter House and asked him if he wanted to go flying. I told him “once we take off, I like to take a little nap and needed someone to fly the plane”. We laughed. While flying, Herb shared with me a  number of experiences and some of his background. I was truly honored to share  this experience with him. Oh, Herb did all the flying and did a great job.

Nancy and I know this is a difficult time for the family, especially Dee, but we wanted to share with them how much it meant to us sharing time with Herb and Dee.

I suspect Herb touched a lot of lives and will be missed by many. I know of a couple of people that will still be looking for Herb the next time they are at the EAA Chapter House.

I can hear the air traffic controller at Manassas Airport now “Herb, you are cleared for  departure on runway 34 left, maintain altitude, turn north, next stop Heaven”.

Our Most Heartfelt Condolences,

Tim and Nancy Nash


My great-uncles that I had the pleasure of knowing beyond early childhood have all had a profound impact on my life.  One who taught me how to have fun and laugh, one who taught me how to fight and be passionate in my beliefs :), and you. You taught me how to be curious. How to wonder why and how things worked.  You are the reason that I have a LOVE for truly understanding the innerworkings of things.  You are the smartest man I've ever known and I will miss you until we meet again.  I too am proud to be one of your "dolls." 

We will always remember and cherish the wonderful conversations and stories we shared with Herb.  Until we meet again...
With love and sympathy,
John and Joanne Kulka

You and Dad are the men who made me who I am. Dad gave me the skills and ability while you gave me the knowledge and desire to accomplish all I have in my life. I will love and miss you unbearably but be eternally grateful for having you as long as I did. I am proud to be one of your "Dolls".
Love, Nori Ann

OBITUARY

Herbert Benson Markle

September 13, 1926 – December 1, 2020

Demaine Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services