04/01/2008

Richard J. "Dick" Herzig

March 28, 2008

OFDA received word this afternoon that Richard J. "Dick" Herzig, 82, died Friday afternoon, March 28, 2008, in his home following a brief illness. Dick joined his father-in-law, John W. Toland, in 1949 as a partner in the operation of the Toland-Herzig Funeral Homes. The business was established by Toland in 1929. For many years, Toland-Herzig also operated the ambulance service in Dover prior to the Dover Fire Department establishing a service.

Born May 9, 1925, in Zoar, Ohio, he was the son of the late Claude and Elfrieda (Beuter) Herzig. He was a lifelong member of St. John's United Church of Christ in Dover where he previously served on the church council. A graduate of Dover High School Class of 1943, he faithfully served his country in the United States Navy where he was a Pharmacist's Mate Second Class aboard the USS Bountiful in the South Pacific during WWII. He also entertained by playing drums with Navy dance bands. Following his military service, he entered the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science where he was honored with the Dean's Award.

He served the community in many capacities. He was a Director Emeritus of the First Federal Community Banks. He was the Charter President of the Exchange Club in Dover. He was a former member of the Dover Rotary and Jaycees. He was Past Presi-dent of the Tuscarawas County Humane Society, Past Exalted Ruler and life member of the Dover B.P.O.E. No. 975 and also served the Elks in District and State capacities, Past Commander and life member of the Dover American Legion and enjoyed performing with the former Drum & Bugle Corp., served in the position of Surgeon for the Dover VFW for many years, 55-year member of the 40 et 8 Voiture No. 117, Tuscarawas Masonic Lodge No. 59, Scottish Rite Valley of Canton and the Tadmor Shrine and Eastern Star.

Over the years, Dick had many interests. He was a well-known area drummer having played many shows with Little Theater and several area dance bands. He was also a devoted animal lover from racing horses (Standard-breeds) at area fairs, to assisting with "King," the first Dover Police dog, to enjoying his koi fish at the funeral home pond.

Dick joins his wife, Marilyn (Toland) Herzig, who died Jan. 8, 1996. They were married nearly 50 years. He leaves his children, John (wife, Joyce) Herzig and Peggy (husband, Rick) Holmes, both of Dover; four grandchildren, Trevor Herzig, Troy (wife, Marcie) Herzig, Tricia (husband, Joel) McKinnon, and Sara Holmes; four great-grandchildren, Kylan, Alyssa and Ava Herzig and Jack McKinnon; and his sister, Margaret (husband, Art) Dell of Strasburg; and his canine companion, Chelsey.

Interment will be in the Dover Burial Park. Those who cannot attend or who may wish to express a fond memory of Dick may sign the online register book by visiting the obituaries link on www.tolandherzig.com .

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's United Church of Christ in Dover, Hospice of Tuscarawas County, Tuscarawas County Humane Society, Cats 'N' Us shelter, or the charity of one's choice.