Obituary
Michael Abraham Herman passed away peacefully on Friday, January 31, 2025, at the age of 82. In his final days, he was surrounded by an outpouring of love, with family by his side around the clock.
Born on August 29, 1942, in New York, New York, to Eleanor and Alfred Herman, Michael was a cherished brother to Eleanor, Joan, and Alfred Jr. Herman.
In 1961, Michael married Valerie Hotaling, sharing a deep and enduring love that many only dream of finding. Their marriage was built on hard work, devotion, tenderness, laughter, and plenty of playful banter. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Brenda and Timothy Herman, and later expanded their family by adopting Frederick Herman.
Michael’s presence commanded respect in any room he entered. With a strong will and an unwavering spirit, he was a natural leader and a man of great fortitude. Yet, when it came to his grandchildren—and even more so his great-grandchildren—that big, strong man became warm, affectionate, and utterly devoted.
A true patriarch, Michael also knew how to be the life of the party. From Albany, New York, to West Palm Beach, Florida; Winslow, Maine; and finally, The Villages, Florida, he and Val celebrated every milestone and holiday with joy and enthusiasm. They knew the key to any great celebration was being surrounded by family and loved ones. Those lucky enough to attend these gatherings would have the chance to hear him sing:
“Vat ist das hier, das ist the sweatboxer, my darling dear. Sweatboxer, sweatboxer, smugga mugga mugga moo. Das vat I learned in school…”
Michael is survived by his children Brenda, Tim (Monique), and Frederick Herman; grandchildren Michael Thayer, Teaen (Greg) Davis, Jade and Dakota (Paige) Herman, and Kirsten (Daniel) Ayala; beloved great-grandchildren Hannah, Hailey, and Jayden Davis, Joselyn Schmidt, Ariel and Lincoln Ayala, Kolton Herman. He is also survived by his dear friends Harold and Cathy Ice, along with many loving nieces and nephews.
Though a heart of gold has stopped beating and hard-working hands now rest, the memories of an incredible father, Poppa, uncle, and friend will live on forever in our hearts and through the stories we share. Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.
One of many trips to Disney.