Thomas Lynn Herbert

          Thomas Lynn Herbert, 83, of San Jose, California died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Sunday, February 18, 2024.  He was born on November 4, 1940, in Columbus, Ohio to the late Harold and Thelma (Gooding) Herbert. Thomas grew up in the Gnadenhutten area and graduated from Gnadenhutten High School in 1958. Once graduated, he attended Ohio State University.  After earning his degree in Engineering, he joined the U.S. Navy as an Ensign and served in the Vietnam War.  After his service he joined the Coast Guard Reserves and moved to California where he started his family.  He worked some time in sales before going back to school to earn his MBA at California State University- Hayward Campus.  In 1983 Thomas moved to Alexandria, VA where he worked as a Commander and later as a civilian for the US Coast Guard until he retired.  Thomas loved to travel and traveled to all seven continents.  He also had a passion for music and theater. 

          Surviving are his two daughters: Nicky (Christopher) Martin of Ocklawaha, Florida and Erica (Troy) Pafenberg of San Jose, California; two granddaughters: Anna and Emily Pafenberg; sister Patricia Stratton, sister-in-law Ellen Herbert, nieces: Rebecca (Eric) Cheney and Megan (Michael) Taylor; nephews: Robert (Stephanie) Herbert, Paul “Tre” (Brooke) Stratton III, and Kristopher (Jennifer) Stratton; and many great nieces and nephews.

          Along with his parents, Thomas is preceded by his brother Jerry Herbert and brother-in-law Paul Stratton.

           Funeral services for Thomas will be Saturday, March 3rd at 11:30 A.M. held at Koch Funeral Home of Gnadenhutten, 244 N. Walnut St., 44629. Burial will follow in the Gnadenhutten-Clay Union Cemetery.   

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