Obituary of J. Donald Herring

J. Donald Herring, 74, a resident of Baldwinsville for the past 36 years, died peacefully at his home Sunday evening, September 13, 2009, surrounded by his loving family. After graduating from Westmoreland High School, he matriculated at SUNY Oswego. At SUNY Oswego, Don served as President of the Student Council. He completed his education at Syracuse University earning a Masters Degree in Science Education and a Doctorate in Education Administration. Dr. Herring’s professional teaching career was one hallmarked by classroom mastery, innovation, mentorship, and the relational aspects of pedagogy. He served on the faculties of SUNY Oswego and Syracuse University. Hired by SUNY Oswego in 1970, he served as the Chair of the Department of Secondary Education. He later joined the faculty of the School of Business where he was the architect of the innovative and nationally recognized Human Resource Management program. In 1993, Dr. Herring was awarded the SUNY Oswego Alumni Association’s Lifetime Award of Merit. Dr. Herring’s post-professional career was highlighted by service to others. As an active member of Kiwanis International he served in a variety of senior posts spanning the years 1995-2009. He was a local club president and secretary prior to serving as NYS Kiwanis Lieutenant Governor and Governor. Don culminated his Kiwanis career as Secretary/Treasurer of the Kiwanis Foundation. An avid SU sports fan and season ticket holder for 50 years, he enjoyed national championships in football, basketball and lacrosse. He is pre-deceased by his daughter Donna. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Marlene (Dimmler) Herring, sons David of Liverpool, Jeffrey of Auburn, and Michael of Massachusetts, sister Barbara Redmond of Holland Patent, and eight grandchildren. Services will be held at Falardeau Funeral Home in Baldwinsville. Calling hours are 2-4pm and 7-9pm Thursday, September 17. A celebration of Don’s life will be held at the funeral home at 10am on Friday, September 18. A funeral mass at St. Mary’s Church in Baldwinsville will follow at noon. Graveside burial will occur at St. Helena’s Cemetery in Oneida at 2pm. Contributions in lieu flowers may be made to Kamp Kiwanis, 9020 Kiwanis Road, Taberg, NY 13471 and/or Hospice of CNY, 990 7th North Street, Liverpool, NY 13088-6148.