Henry "Harry" Hermans

Kenosha- On July 31, 2012, Henry R. Hermans left his earthly body to spend eternity with his heavenly Father. As he entered the gates of heaven we can almost hear his voice shouting Hallelujah, one of his favorite and frequent praises. Harry was born June 22, 1917 in Rock Island, Ill. to John Cornelius and Julia (Veermeer) Hermans. At about the age of three Harry moved with his family to Antwerp, Belgium, returning to the US six years later to settle in Racine. Harry had attended school in Belgium and returned to the US speaking Flemish as well as English, earning him the nickname, Dutch. In May of 1938 Harry married Esther Lillian Nelson and they had three children. Harry worked as a precision grinder for Tree Tool and Die Company for many years. After his retirement Harry enjoyed fishing, watching sports, taking rides along the lakefront and spending time with his family. In 2007, Harry moved to Woodstock Nursing Home in Kenosha. He could often be heard in the halls there playing his harmonica. Everyone there knew Harry. Harry was a long time member of Calvary Memorial Church. His many years of service there include serving as a Deacon, teaching adult Sunday School, providing janitorial services and driving the Sunday School bus. Harry had a special passion for missions, from working to the Racine Rescue Mission to keeping in close communication with missionaries and helping meet their needs He always had a missionary "bucket" where he put all of his change for the missionaries. Harry is survived by his children and their spouses; Natalie and Al Atkins, and John and Gloria Hermans; his grandchildren, Lisa Barton, Alan (Lisa) Atkins, Amy (Chuck) Vokal, and Andrew (Elisha) Hermans, his great-grandchildren, Julia and Maya Barton and Hope Atkins. Harry was preceded in death by Esther, his wife of 66 years and his daughter, Marianne Lee Frederiksen. Funeral services will be held at Calvary Memorial Church (4001 Washington Ave.) on Saturday, August 11, 2012 at 10:30am. Visitation will be at the church on Saturday from 9:30am until the time of service. Burial will be at West Lawn Memorial Park. In honor of Harry, casual dress is appreciated. In lieu of flowers, memorials to support missionaries have been suggested. Send Flowers & Gifts

Henry "Harry" Hermans

June 22, 1917 - July 31, 2012