Herbert Alfred Koerner

Herbert Alfred Koerner Battle Creek Herbert Alfred Koerner, 86 of Battle Creek, died Sunday, November 1, 2009 after a brief illness at the Calhoun County Medical Care Facility. He was born May 31, 1923 in Mannheim, Germany the son of Andrew and Louise (Veith) Koerner. He was a graduate of Battle Creek Central High School and Argubright Business College. Herbert was a veteran of the US Navy during World War II; a Seabee attached with the 31st Construction Battalion. During the Korean War he joined the 172nd Air National Guard Unit here in Battle Creek until 1952. He was employed for 17 years with US Steel & Wire Company and for 26 years with Ralston Purina Company as an industrial pipe fitter retiring in 1986. Herbert Alfred Koerner was united in marriage March 8, 1944 to Mary Norris Dale at the First Presbyterian Church. In addition to his wife, Mary, Herbert is survived by his daughter, Jeanne (Dan) Lutz of Stanwood; a son, John (Cindy) Koerner of Battle Creek; four granddaughters, Amy (Gregg) Hesterman, Sara (Mark) Crandall, Angela (Jay) Hunn, Allison (Brian) Noble; three step-grandchildren, Chuck (Lorraine) Lutz, Beth (Kevin) Read, Kate (Dave) Cunz; eight great-grandchildren; five step great-grandchildren; a sister Irma Harding of Battle Creek; and special nieces and nephews Herbert was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and it's XYZ Club, Ralston 25 Year Club, member of the Y-Center, past-officer of Omni Credit Union Board of Directors. He played on the city Fast-Pitch Softball League 19461951, played on AA State Championship Basketball Team and Quarter State Finals in high school basketball. He enjoyed summers fishing at his cottage on Wall Lake, breakfast with fellow retirees of Ralston Purina, Detroit Tiger baseball and spending time with his family. At the request of the family, friends may call after 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home where the family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at the funeral home, with Rev. Patricia J. Weatherwax from First Presbyterian Church officiating. Interment will be at Ft. Custer National Cemetery with full Military Honors. Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to First Presbyterian Church or to "Remember a Vet. Fund" Personal remembrances may be made at "www.farleyestesdowdle.com"