Herbert Boss

On December 2, 2018, Herb Boss passed peacefully out of this world and went home to Heaven.  Herb was born and raised in Charlevoix and except for his time in the army, he never lived more than a few miles from where he was born – and he never wanted to.  He was an old-fashioned man, with no interest in modern technology or gadgets, preferring a simple life.

A graduate of Charlevoix High School, Herb entered the army in 1952 and was stationed in Germany.  When he returned home, he worked in farming and construction with his father.  They specialized in building fieldstone fireplaces, including the fireplace at the Community Reformed Church.  He went on to work for Dick Way Construction until his retirement.

In 1955, Herb married Bev Danforth.  They moved to his grandfather’s farm on South Barnard Road, where they raised six children.  Herb loved the outdoors, working in his garden until it was too dark to see.  He spent many happy hours in deer blinds and fish shanties.  Even though he worked in construction for most of his adult life, Herb always considered himself a farmer.  His garden was his pride and joy, providing produce for his family, neighbors, and the many lucky people who drove by when the “free” table was out by the road.

Herb was preceded in death by his wife of almost 60 years, Bev, his son Dave, and his parents, Jack and Frances Boss.  He is survived by his children Sue (Dave) Mitchell, Dan (Sue) Boss, Lisa (Mark) Vind, Doug Boss, and Barb (Brian) Myers, and grandchildren Emily Boss, Lauren and Ross Mitchell, and Rachel, Sarah and Robby Vind.  Herb will also be missed by his brothers Nate (Kathryn) Boss and Ken (Myrna) Boss, and sisters Esther (Garry) Vandenberg and Kathy (Rod) Lindner; in-laws Keith (Marilyn) Danforth and Kathy Danforth; many nieces and nephews; and his long-time friends and neighbors in Barnard.

A service celebrating Herb’s life will be held at 11:00 am on December 5 at Community Reformed Church in Charlevoix.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Safe Haven’s Random Acts of Bev fund or McLaren’s Hiland Cottage Hospice House.

Arrangements by Winchester Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.