May 29, 2024 was a beautiful and warm day that Herbert usually would have been spending outside, except he was found passed away inside his home by his loved ones with one of his beloved dogs Rosco still on his lap. Herbert passed away peacefully from natural causes, spending even his last day caring for all those around him. As put best by his son, God had decided that after all Herbert’s hard work completing many earthly chores during his long 78 years of life, was now done and he may rest, as we all will continue to finish ours. He is the youngest son of Hershal and Ethel Greer and one of 10 siblings. Born in Troy, MI, June 5, 1945, and raised in Ferndale, MI. He now joins his late parents and siblings.
Herbert was a tough kid, often sporting a leather jacket, who grew into an adventurous thrill-seeker. During his young adult years, he worked in horse racing and later became an exceptional tree foreman, a position he held until the age of 55. Known for his daring stunts – and injuries – not even his beloved Jessie could keep him out of trouble. He had a strong aversion to authority and, while working for the city of Ferndale, Herbert even dared to ‘humble’ the mayor. He was always his own boss, with rules frequently bent to him. Jessie and Herbert have been married for 58 years, having tied the knot nine years before the invention of the first digital camera, and started their family in Michigan, before moving west to Oregon and California.
Papa adored his family more than anything else and enjoyed fishing trips, scrapping, and hunting with his sons. He adored being a father to his four sons: Herbert Jr., George, David, and Jeremiah, so much that he agreed to adopt two infants in his 50’s, his youngest sons, Dylan and Branden, which somehow he stayed young for. He was a man’s man who worked hard and made sure his family knew the value of hard work, all except his beloved Jessie, which he took the greatest joy catering to, fawning over and providing for. With his wife and family being his greatest joy in life he also enjoyed movie pictures, dancing, Johnny Cash, cooking, and telling poor unknowing kids they dropped their pocket. He always found pleasure in the small things in life.
He was a patient man, which is what made him such an outstanding teacher, not only for his sons but also for grandchildren, friends, and a stranger in the supermarket having a bad day. This patience, along with being playful, flirtatious, and outgoing, gave him the ability to befriend anyone in any corner of any room he came across. Of course, that was only if he wanted to befriend you. If not, he could definitely out-smack-talk you. He in time became known for his riddles, jokes, stories, and cautionary tales. I’m sure most people have been told in their lives that they are good storytellers. Not to hurt any feelings, chances are they are not. But our Herbert most certainly was, quickly having a circle around him to hear his captivating tales. Herbert had an uncanny ability to discern precisely what someone needed – be it a laugh, a smile, or a shoulder to cry on. In the absence of the perfect story, he would listen intently such as if you were the only person speaking in the world.
He is survived by a large family: his epic love Jessie Greer, three sisters, six sons, three daughters-inlaw, 17 grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren. He is missed beyond all known measure. Per his final wishes, his sons accompanied him at his cremation. Additionally rather than a funeral, there will be a celebration of life on July 20, 2024.