Obituaries: April 26, 2018

Leona F. “Cubby” Herman, lifelong Colfax resident, passed away on Thursday, April 19, 2018, at the Whitman Hospital. She was 91. Leona was born on September 3, 1926, to W. Raymond and Nellie Lyons Culbertson. She attended Hamilton School and graduated from Colfax High School in 1944. She enjoyed a happy childhood with her siblings, Irma (Stueckle) and twin brothers, Dean and Dale Culbertson.

Leona married Harvey R. Herman on September 15, 1950, at the First Christian Church. They purchased a home in town and have remained there for over 60 years. Together, they enjoyed traveling and singing among many other things.

“Cubby” worked at Seattle First National Bank for many years and later worked at the Bank of Whitman in Colfax. Homemaking was her primary love and she freely opened their home to friends and gatherings. After 10 years of marriage, they added a daughter, Shelly, to the family.

Leona and Harvey were one of the couples who founded Community Bible Church and their involvement there was a high priority. Serving in any way they could, Leona was a known face to anyone who visited the church. She loved singing in choirs, working with children, women’s Bible Studies, and more. She was quick to welcome newcomers and host fellowship events that resulted in many lifelong friendships.

Leona was also a member of the local PEO chapter, Athenaeum, and the hospital auxiliary where she volunteered much of her time in the Bluebird Gift Shop. She was enthusiastically involved in many of her daughter’s activities including leading a Camp Fire group, hosting Good News Clubs and Young Life gatherings and attending all school activities. “Cubby” loved to read, knit and crochet and work in her beautiful yard. She had a passion for flowers and spent many hours a week puttering outside.

Leona had a natural, deep concern and love for people. She went the extra mile to remember people on special days and through challenging times as well. She was free with her words of encouragement, smiles and expressions of love to others. She was truly loyal and “all in” for fun.

Leona is survived by her husband of 67 years, Harvey, at their Colfax home; her daughter, Shelly; son-in-law, Mark; granddaughter, Lane, and grandson, Brady all of Longview, Washington. She cherished each of them dearly. Leona was preceded in death by her sister and brothers.

A private family graveside service will be held at the Colfax Cemetery followed by a celebration of life at 2:00 PM on Friday, April 27th, at the Community Bible Church (Catalyst – Fairview Campus). Viewing will be at Bruning Funeral Home from 9 AM to 5 PM on Thursday. The family suggests memorial gifts be made to the Union Gospel Mission or to the Whitman Hospital Auxiliary. Online guest book is at http://www.bruningfuneralhome.com. Bruning Funeral Home, Colfax, is caring for the family.