Don Hermann

Don Hermann, 90, of Paola, Kansas, passed away on September 19, 2026, in Osawatomie, Kansas. He was born on September 16, 1936, in Westphalia, Kansas, to John and Helen Hermann.

Don grew up in Westphalia and attended and graduated from high school there. After high school, he joined the National Guard and served for eight years.

Don married Darleene Schulte on July 25, 1959, in Westphalia, Kansas. From this union, they had two children, Vernon and Brenda. They were happily married for nearly 60 years. Darleene preceded him in death on May 25, 2019.

Don spent his working career at General Motors. For 30 years, he worked as a relief man on the assembly line, before retiring in 1984.That same year, Don and his wife, Darleene, moved from Shawnee, Kansas, where they had lived for many years, to rural Paola. There, he built a life around the land he loved. He had cattle and enjoyed farming and caring for the property. Gardening was another of his great pleasures, and he was especially known for growing and selling tomatoes. During the winter months, many people also knew Don as the person to see for sharpening the chains for their chainsaws.

Don enjoyed fishing and hunting and was well liked by everyone who knew him. He will be remembered as a very loving, kind, and hard-headed man whose steady presence left a lasting impression on those around him. He was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Paola and also belonged to Knights of Columbus Council #1149. Among his happiest memories were trips to the casino with Darleene. In the last year of his life, he also gained a furry companion named Sammy, who brought him comfort and companionship.

He is survived by his son, Vernon (Teresa) Hermann; his daughter, Brenda (Tim) Hoggard; his grandsons, Kyle Hermann and Brett Hermann; and his brother, Larry Hermann. He was preceded in death by his wife, Darleene Hermann; his father, John Hermann; his mother, Helen Hermann; and his sisters, Carolyn Ashburn and Pat McGhee.

Don’s life was marked by hard work, devotion to family, love of the outdoors, and care for the simple things that made a home and community stronger. He will be deeply missed and warmly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held at 9:00 am, Monday, September 28, 2026, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 501 E Chippewa St, Paola, KS 66071. Rosary will be prayed at 10:00 am, with the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made payable to Ascend Hospice, 4550 W 109th St, Overland Park, KS 66207.

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