Christopher John Herman

Christopher John Herman, 67, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2024, in Oregon, Ohio.  Chris was born on June 23, 1957 in Toledo, OH, to the late Charles and Norma Herman. He was the eldest of eight children. Chris graduated from Cardinal Stritch High School and went on to earn his Associate Degree in Applied Fire Science from Owens Community College.

Chris began his distinguished firefighting career with Oregon City Fire and Rescue Department serving as a volunteer firefighter for 12 years. During his 45-year career at BP Oil, he was the Fire Chief and Lead Fire Instructor and Emergency Response Specialist, retiring in 2020. He was a respected leader in his field and received numerous accolades for his contributions to the fire protection industry. Chris was also an active member of the National Fire Protection Association and served as a member of the Board of Directors - Industrial Section.

A trusted advisor and ferocious friend, Chris was many things to many people. But one of his greatest joys was to be a Dad and Poppy. He was known in his family to send “Dad Sermons” on Sunday mornings. His message was always signed with the Greek word, “Agape” – the highest form of love – one that demonstrates selflessness, sacrifice and unconditional care for others. Chris was the personification of the word and all those who knew him saw this every day.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Marcia, and his children, Natalie (Clint) Atkins, Ellen Herman-Kimball, Eric (Leah) Herman, Lindsay (Jeff) Rosenberg, and Kate (Josh) Dumbaugh, and his six grandchildren, Emmaline, David, and Lucy Rosenberg; Josephine Kimball; Vera and Levi Herman. He is also survived by his siblings, Mary Brandt, Holly Jean Herman, Rosi Reese, Margaret (Bryan) Maltman, Chuck (Kristine) Herman, Joe (Amy) Herman and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Barbara Corbin.

Visitation will be held at Freck Funeral Chapel 1155 S. Wynn Rd. Oregon, OH 43616 on Tuesday, July 23 from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Wednesday July 24th from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM where a fireman’s service will take place Wednesday at 7:00 PM.  Funeral services will begin in the funeral home on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 10:00 AM and continue on with the funeral Mass which will begin at 11:00 AM at St. Ignatius Catholic Church, 212 N. Stadium Rd. Oregon, OH.

Following the example of agape love that Chris lived every day, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to a charity close to your heart.

The family would like to thank the ICU staff at Bay Park Community Hospital for their compassionate care and support during his final days. Chris will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.