In Memory of John Francis Herberger. age 79, born 11/19/1945, died 8/09/2025 - Akron, New York

John Francis Herberger

The checker fraternity has lost another passionate adherent! John Francis Herberger of
Akron, New York, passed away Saturday morning, August 9, after a lengthy illness in hospital and
in rehabilitation centers. He was born November 19, 1945. John was one of 11 children; 2 other
siblings predeceased John. Of the 8 remaining siblings, 6 were able to attend John’s memorial
service. John and his wife Carol were married 44 years. They were very close and John’s passing
has created a terrible void in Carol’s life.
On Friday, August 15, at the Taylor and Reynolds Funeral Home in Lockport, New York,
relatives and friends of John gathered to mourn his loss, pay their respects, and share stories of
their association with John. His step-daughter, Luci, did an excellent job of gathering and
displaying photos and articles of events in John’s life. So many of the items were about John’s
serious participation in the grand old game.
John was a strong MAJOR player finishing third in a national tournament many years ago.
Before closing his casket John’s best checker board and checkers, which had been on display with
him, were carefully placed at his side in the coffin.
Following the 2 hours of sharing, Pastor Robert Dean led a brief memorial service at the
funeral home and at John’s burial site. Before leaving John’s grave, all present laid a hand on
John’s casket as a sign of respect for John, and to bid him farewell.
It was my privilege to be John’s friend for almost 60 years. He was a much better player than I.
During the past 5 years we played 26 4 game 3-move matches over the internet. Before covid we
would travel to one another’s homes for a day of GAYP checkers. I treasure my fond memories of
association with John Francis Herberger particularly across the board.
Submitted by Ken Shoesmith

Published by echovita  8/11/2025:    https://www.echovita.com/us/obituaries/ny/lockport/john-francis-herberger-sr-20167331

Published by Taylor and Reynolds Funeral Home: 8/11/2025:    https://www.taylorandreynolds.com/john-francis-herberger/

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