Bill Herman

Jan 11, 1948 -

Aug 13, 2025

William George Herman, known to all as Bill, passed away peacefully at home on Aug. 13, 2025, at the age of 77, surrounded by family and friends. He was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer just weeks earlier, and his sudden decline in health was jarring to both him and his loved ones. He was a warm, generous and adventurous soul—a devoted father, loving partner and cherished friend.

Born on Jan. 11, 1948, in Tieton, Wash., Bill was adopted by farmworkers and raised in the Yakima Valley, where he developed a deep love of the outdoors and a strong work ethic. He earned a degree in geology from Washington State University but chose a path of social service over industry, taking on jobs that aligned with his values.

Bill lived and worked in Kodiak, Alaska, as a kayak guide, teacher and director of a local alcohol recovery program. He later earned a master's in public administration from the University of Washington and worked for 18 years at the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority. Throughout his life, he was deeply involved in his community—as a teacher, activist, Quaker and mentor.

Bill will be remembered for his kindness, playfulness and unwavering commitment to living a meaningful life. He touched many lives through his generosity, sense of humor, his quiet strength and joyful spirit of adventure.

He is survived by his daughter, Laura Herman and husband Sonny Minhas; stepson, Nate Parsons and wife Amanda; stepdaughter, Adrienne Parsons and her stepdaughter Clara Melgar-Zacher; sister, Julie Holden; and niece, Danie Holden and wife Sophie Krauza.

No obituary of any length can fully capture Bill's loving presence in this world, nor all the ways he impacted the people around him – he was a multifaceted and cherished human being who lived life to the fullest. There will be a celebration of his life in the Quaker tradition on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, at 4 p.m., at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Anchorage, Alaska. Attendees will share stories and honor Bill's presence in, and gifts to, the world. A potluck will follow – but please don't let the lack of a dish keep you from coming.