James S. Herr, founder of Herr Foods Inc., maker of Herr’s line of snacks, passed away of complications from pneumonia on April 5, 2012. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Miriam Hershey Herr. Together they had five children: June Gunden, wife of Doug Gunden, Peachtree City, Ga.; James M. Herr, husband of Lois Herr, Nottingham, Pa.; Edwin Herr, Nottingham, Pa.; Gene Herr, husband of Terri Herr, Kirkwood, Pa.; and Martha Thomas, wife of Daryl Thomas, Kirkwood, Pa. Jim is survived by 20 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
Jim Herr was born in Lancaster, Pa., on Aug. 6, 1924. He is survived by two brothers, Christian Herr of Willow Street, Pa., and Ira Herr of Ephrata, as well as a sister, Anna Mae Herr of Phoenix, Ariz. He was preceded in death by his sister Mary Herr Metzler in 1974.
He started his snack food business in 1946 with the help of his then fiancée, and now wife, Miriam. The business grew from a small potato chip manufacturing operation to a producer of a full line of snacks. Today Herr’s products can be found in most states and in numerous foreign countries. While retaining his title of founder, he Herr retired from his role as Chairman of the Board of Herr Foods Inc, when his eldest son, J.M. Herr, assumed that role in 2005. Until his passing, J.S. continued to serve on the board of directors.
Jim Herr was very active in his community and his church, Mount Vernon Mennonite. In addition he provided leadership on numerous boards dedicated to evangelism, philanthropy, and free enterprise.
Following a private interment for the immediate family, plans include public visitation next weekend and a memorial service in several weeks. For details, visit www.herrs.com or call 1-800-344-3777.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the James S. Herr Foundation, which supports evangelism around the world.
Memorial Donations can be sent to: Herr Foods Inc.20 Herr Drive, PO Box 300, Nottingham, PA 19362
