Robert L. Herrmann

HERRMANN, Dr. Robert L. passed away peacefully on December 12th, 2019 at the age of 91. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Elizabeth (Betty) Herrmann; his children, Stephen Herrmann and his wife Anne of Pembroke MA; Karen Ritter and her husband John of Tulsa OK; Holly Waite and her husband Geoff of Topsfield MA; Anders Herrmann and his wife Celine of Beverly MA. He is also survived by his older sister Carol Wallace of Bedford MA and eight grandchildren, Abigail, Samuel, James, Daniel, Corinne, Benjamin, Christopher and Alexander, and one great-granddaughter, Savannah. Bob is predeceased by his infant son, Theodore Herrmann.

Born in 1928 in New York City, Bob grew up in Queens and studied chemistry at Purdue University. He served in the Navy on U.S.S. Shenandoah. Bob earned a PhD. at Michigan State University and joined M.I.T. as a Damon Runyon Fellow in Biology. He later joined the faculty of Boston University - teaching biochemistry there for 17 years while consulting for the V.A. in Bedford. He later taught biochemistry at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa OK before returning to New England to serve as adjunct professor of chemistry and pre-med advisor at Gordon College. He also served as Director of the American Scientific Affiliation - an organization that encourages dialogue between science and Christian faith. In this forum, he met member Sir John Templeton, with whom he collaborated in writing several books, including Sir John’s biography. Bob is a founding member of the John Templeton Foundation.

He loved his family and enjoyed birdwatching, boating, the company of dogs, and discussions on science and Christian faith. He will be greatly missed and remembered with affection.

A memorial service will be held at Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church at 188 Elliott Street, Danvers MA on January 4, 2020 at 11:00 AM.  To sign Bob’s online guestbook, visit Morris Funeral Home website at www.morrisfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to SavetheChildren.org.

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