Herman Vanderwall

VANDERWALL, Herman Mattawan Herman (Peanie) was born on September 3, 1923 in Blue Island, Illinois, and passed away on November 21, 2011. Herman leaves behind his loving wife of 66 years, Faye (Tuttle); his five children: Bob (Cindy), Tim (Barb), Lynne Burmeister (Scott), Cathy Septoski (Jerry), Joan Abel (Dave); his grandchildren: Leif, Corie (Willis), Julie Jean (Dirk), Gretchen (Robert), Brandon, Samantha, Ian (Cortney), Jocelyn, Julie Anne and Jeff; and ten great grandchildren. He also leaves behind a sister LaVerne, sister-in-law Rita, brother-in-law Hank, and many nieces and nephews. Herman married the love of his life, Faye on June 9, 1945. Herman was an avid golfer and enjoyed gardening, fishing, camping, and volunteer work for the Order of the Purple Heart and Disabled American Veterans Organization. He also volunteered at Battle Creek Veterans Organization. Herman was a journeyman plumber throughout his working career. Upon retirement he moved to Lawrence, MI and then to Mattawan, MI. Herman served during World War II in the Army Air Corp in the 453rd Bombardment Group Heavy 735th Bomb Squadron. He was an airplane Armorer-Gunner who flew 24 combat missions in the European Theatre and served 1943-1945. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart, Air Medal-3 Oak Leaf Clusters, European African Middle Eastern Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. Cremation has taken place. A family service honoring Herman will be on Friday at Fort Custer in Battle Creek. A celebration of Herman's life is being planned for Memorial Day weekend in 2012 for family and friends. Memorial remembrances may be made to Hospice of Southwest Michigan. Friends may share a memory or photo online at: www.avinkcremation.com Arrangements by Avink Funeral Home Cremation Society Schoolcraft