Herb Edde was born in Santa Paula, CA to Grace and Harry Edde. Herb and his wife, Edith, have lived in Gilroy since 1957. He graduated from Santa Paula High School and entered the Army during WWII. He was shipped out to the European Theater in the 69th Infantry. He partricipated in the clean up after the Battle of the Bulge.
He attended New Mexico State where he met the love of his life, Edith. After a 6 month courtship, they married on Christmas break in December of 1948. Herb graduated in 1950 with a degree in mechanical engineering. Their son, Charles Richard, was born in 1950. Herb’s career as an engineer took him through many large companies, and provided opportunities to build food processing equipment for places throughout the world. He and Edith traveled extensively and enjoyed it. His last position was ownership of South Valley Manufacturing. After his retirement from this business, he became a bee keeper, enjoying a small honey business.
Herb was a charter member of the Sunrise Gilroy Rotary, a life member of the Elk’s Lodge, a reader at Glen Valley School, a past docent at Bonfante Gardens bee display, an avid bridge player, and a fervent volunteer at the Gilroy Garlic Festival since it’s inception. Her is preceded in death by his parents, his son Charles Richard, and his only sister, Elaine Barceloux. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Edith, and his three girls; Nita Jensen, Ruth (Gary) Zeiders and Jane Hanna. He has 10 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Herb had many “adopted” children as well. Herb cherished his family and many close friends…you know who you are.
Herb’s life was blessed in every way and our family appreciates that God has played a role in our lives. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity.
Services to be held at 11 A.M. Friday, February 15, 2008, at Habing Family Funeral Home.
