As a young man, Herb began working for the Shawnee, Oklahoma fire department. He made lifelong friends, as well as retaining a definite interest in the "fireboys" at Shawnee.

Moving Mary and Betty to California during the '40's, Herb began a second career as an equipment operator. Ultimately, he would retire from that work and make a move back to Oklahoma with Mary. Fitting back into the camaraderie of the young firemen, he spent many hours at the station which still held great appeal to him.

One of Herb's loves was fishing, which he did frequently during retirement. Also, a good political debate was of special interest to him--especially if he could incite some interest from an opposing stance in the political realm!

Always a gentlemen, he seemed genuinely glad to welcome Mary's nieces and nephews to his home. Most often he had a good "Bill May story" to share. Betty, Bill, Mike, Sandy and family were often the topic of his reminiscing.

The newly formed Shawnee Firefighters' honor guard made their debut at the memorial services for Herb. As his casket was borne from funeral home to graveside, every intersection held a young "fireboy" at attention beside his truck. It seemed that the tribute paid to him was as great as any that could be bestowed on a fallen comrade.

- Janet Tate