Mr. Walter “Wally” Hermann, 87, passed away at Ascension All Saints on March 15, 2026.
Wally was born in Kenosha on January 14, 1939, the son of the late Walter and Lousie (nee Heinrich) Hermann.
He graduated from UW-Milwaukee with a bachelor’s in industrial operations management. He also proudly served his nation with the US Navy. He was especially passionate about the time he spent in the Navy as a fire control technician serving aboard the destroyer escort USS Silverstein, and felt his experience there shaped the way he built his future and viewed his work. He was very patriotic and enjoyed reading and watching war history.
Wally married Rose Mary James (nee Hodges) on December 1, 1973. She preceded him in death on August 21, 2025.
Wally had an extensive employment history. He worked as a systems analyst for AC Spark Plug, Louis Allis, Carrier, Massey Ferguson, Xerox, Cap Gemini, and was the plant general manager for George Meyer. After retirement, he enjoyed working at Manheim, driving automobiles to and from the auto auction.
Wally was a deeply generous man, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He gave freely of his time, resources, and kindness. Whether it was supporting family or a friend, helping a neighbor, or quietly assisting someone facing hard times, Wally’s compassion spoke louder than words. His generosity touched many lives and reflected the depth of his caring heart.
Above all, Wally will be remembered for his remarkable sense of humor. He had a gift for finding joy in everyday moments and sharing it generously with those around him. Whether through a quick wit, a playful joke, or a perfectly timed story, Wally had a way of making people laugh and feel at ease. His laughter was warm and contagious, and it brought light to even the most ordinary days.
Though he will be deeply missed, Wally’s legacy lives on in the laughter he inspired, the kindness he showed, and the happiness he spread. Those who knew him will carry his spirit with them.
He is survived by his sons and daughter, Robert (Sharon) James, Mary (Barry) Barrett, Thomas James, and Charles (Shelly) James; his daughters-in-law, Michelle Hermann and Kim James; 14 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Anita Hermann.
In addition to his parents and wife, Wally was preceded in death by his sons, Walter R. Hermann, Jr., and Steven James; and his grandson, Billy James.
Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Thursday, March 26, 2026, for a visitation from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. A service celebrating his life will follow at 3:00 pm and conclude with Military Honors. A private interment will take place at West Lawn Memorial Park at a later date. Memorials will be sent to the Destroyer Escort Historical Museum and the St. Joseph’s Indian School.
