Herbert Horst Stampfl

Herbert H. Stampfl, 83, of Rancho Cucamonga passed peacefully on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at home.

Herb’s full and amazing life was filled with accomplishments, dreams realized and fulfilled goals. He achieved everything he set out to do living his life to the fullest.

Herb was born on September 30, 1942, in a small town in Austria during World War II. In 1950, the family was able to book passage to America with the help of Herb’s aunt. They settled in Brooklyn, New York where he attended St. Mathias Catholic School. He was accepted into Brooklyn Technical High School, specializing in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, which Herb excelled at, graduating with honors. He became a naturalized citizen on December 13, 1961.

In 1960, his family moved to Chino, California where he attended UCLA, School of Engineering, earning his bachelor’s degree in science, and receiving his Master Science Degree at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Los Angeles. He often joked that he nearly flunked out of college during his freshman year because he would play bridge and shoot pool rather than go to class. He excelled at bridge earning his Life Master. After graduation, he was hired as an aeronautical engineer by Pratt Whitney Aircraft, designing jet engines and moved to Connecticut. Returning to Chino, California with an offer he could not refuse. He became a partner and eventually bought Kemper Manufacturing, a tool business, which he successfully managed as President and owner for fifty-seven years. His commitment to his customers, his employees, and his pride in the quality of the craftmanship displayed in the many tool products he designed and reproduced. His merchandise was sold both nationally and internationally.

In 2024, Herb sold the business and retired. He volunteered his time as Treasurer of the Inland Valley Meals on Wheels located in Upland, Ca. He contributed to many philanthropic organizations. His life was a testament to kindness, strength of character and a true dedication to his family and friends. He was a gentleman and a scholar. He and his wife Lory built a life together traveling the world, visiting all seven continents, playing golf and bridge, and visiting their children and grandchildren. The grandchildren referred to Herb as “Poppa Herb.” At one time, he owned a Pet Store and his Keeshond “Romeo” won Best in Breed. Herb was so proud.

His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the values and morals he lived by. A Celebration of his Life will be held at Red Hill Country Club on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 11:00 am. A mass will be said at St Anthony’s in Upland on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite or local Animal Shelter on Herb’s behalf.