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Don Herbert Obituary
Herbert, who had bone cancer, died at his suburban Bell Canyon home, said his son-in-law, Tom Nikosey.
''He really taught kids how to use the thinking skills of a scientist,'' said former colleague Steve Jacobs. He worked with Herbert on a 1980s show that echoed the original 1950s ''Watch Mr. Wizard'' series, which became a fond baby boomer memory.
In ''Watch Mr. Wizard,'' which was produced from 1951 to 1964 and received a Peabody Award in 1954, Herbert turned TV into an entertaining classroom. On a simple, workshop-like set, he demonstrated experiments using household items.
''He modeled how to predict and measure and analyze. ... The show today might seem slow but it was in-depth and forced you to think along,'' Jacobs said. ''You were learning about the forces of nature.''
Herbert encouraged children to duplicate experiments at home, said Jacobs, who recounted serving as a behind-the-scenes ''science sidekick'' to Herbert on the '80s ''Mr. Wizard's World'' that aired on the Nickelodeon channel.
When Jacobs would reach for beakers and flasks, Herbert would remind him that science didn't require special tools.
'''You could use a mayonnaise jar for that,''' Jacobs recalled being chided by Herbert. ''He tried to bust the image of scientists and that science wasn't just for special people and places.''
Herbert's place in TV history was acknowledged by later stars. When ''Late Night with David Letterman'' debuted in 1982, Herbert was among the first-night guests.
Born in Waconia, Minn., Herbert was a 1940 graduate of LaCrosse State Teachers College and served as a U.S. Army Air Corps pilot during World War II. He worked as an actor, model and radio writer before starting ''Watch Mr. Wizard'' in Chicago on NBC.
The show moved to New York after several years.
He is survived by six children and stepchildren and by his second wife, Norma, his son-in-law said. A private funeral service was planned.
Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press
150 Entries
Greg Hanley
March 24, 2025
God Bless You Sir. My Dad was the Bombardier aboard Herbert 70-2. Part of the 49th Bomb Wing, 461st Bomb Group, 767th Bomb Squadron, Based at Torreto Field, Southern Italy. Captain Don J Herbert and My Father Captain A Hanley are My Heros along with the other Brave Men and Women of that Time. I Salute All.
Clifford O'Neal
September 8, 2018
I watched Mr. Wizard in my hometown of Ft. Wayne, IN. It had a big effect on me. Yes, I became a science (biochemist) . My wife and I believe our grandchildren are really missing out on great TV that
we saw. No more Mr. Wizard, Mr. Rogers, or Captain Kangaroo. In our view, the cartoons all over children's TV now can never take the place of these men or of Ms. Romper's Neighborhood. I hope celebration of these people's life's will spur TV to respond with children's programs with real, live people in them.
Harry Simpson
June 12, 2016
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us. Godspeed.
Rest Don, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
April 1, 2010
For Don...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
How you can show support
Stuart Tresser
January 6, 2008
The
world lost a great person and educator who made science easy to
understand. I remember watching Mr. Wizzard and his experiments and
reactions. A piece of my childhood is now gone, when I grew up in
1950's.Mr. Wizzard inspired me to become a great pianist and composer.
Mr. Wizzard had many lessons on pitch, sound, that I found very useful
and educational. I miss him, and the world also misses him. My website: http://www.jazzbonerecords.com
Jim Sisson
June 17, 2007
This man was a national treasure.
Donna Hanley Freedman
June 17, 2007
Our family has lost touch with yours over the years,but I will never forget your Christmas cards every year. My father was your dear friend and flew every mission with you during WWII. My mother was widowed at 30 with 8 young children and you never forgot us. We will never forget you. Love always,
Donna Hanley Freedman
Matt Lawrence
June 17, 2007
Mr Wizard is one of the reasons I pursued the sciences; I am very sorry for your loss, and please know that he has touched many lives. God bless
Carol Collier
June 17, 2007
I hope this guest book brings into focus how many lives this man touched. There aren't many teachers who are remembered fondly by thousands of kids who never met him, and who weren't even in school when he taught! I never missed the Mr. Wizard show... but will always miss Mr. Wizard.
Jim Tollerton
June 17, 2007
I was one of his "Boomer" fans of the 50s show. I remember he and the show fondly. God Bless his soul and your family.
Jim Tollerton
Sarasota, Florida
Dr. Paul Yocom
June 16, 2007
Don Herbert through his persona of "Mr. Wizard" not only taught facts of science, but he also provided a pathway for the viewer come into contact with his/her own intelligence. Don Herbert did make a difference in many lives, and he did so in the right way at the right time. He was a brilliant educator, who will be missed and remembered with respect and kindness.
Barbara Barrett
June 16, 2007
I was GLUED to the little black and white screened tv we had as a child watching MR. WIZARD...I remember being fascinated by his "experiments" and also would try to duplicate them at home---I think my mother got tired of saving all the old jars I'd ask her for so I could fill them with whatever Mr. Wizard was doing on a particular show. He was a very large part of my childhood and I am very sorry for your loss....
Patricia V. Novak
June 16, 2007
I'am so very sorry for your family as they lost a great man and my prayers are with you always and YES I remember Mr.Wizard and it was a good show too bad we do not have shows like that now and YES it did make a person think too.
Al & Sue Perrault
June 16, 2007
I can meet my maker in peace now knowing
that Mr. Wizard will be there to
explain it all.
Thank You
Don
Dave & Janet Johnson
June 16, 2007
God Bless you Don "Mr. Wizard" Herbert. Some of my earlist TV memories were watching and learning from you. We (family) were just talking about you when we were gathered for my Mother's funeral 2 weeks ago. See you in heaven.
Dave & Jan
sharon vance
June 16, 2007
I have so many good memories of Mr. Wizard, and I am so sorry he is gone. My heart felt sympathy goes out to all his family and friends.
Richard Stanimirov
June 16, 2007
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Joe F. Andres
June 16, 2007
Mr. Wizard was one of my favorite shows as a kid, full of stimulating new knowledge, curiosity, inquiry, and fun. The thirst for knowledge and understanding Don Herbert engendered with his Mr. Wizard has benefited us all. Thanks from a grateful "kid."
Jewel Rainey
June 15, 2007
The memory of you lives on in many, thank you and may God bless and comfort your loved ones in this time of sorrow.
Patsy Jo REED Sircy
June 15, 2007
Very sory about your loss! Such a talent! Pat - R.N. in TN
Neil Steckley
June 15, 2007
Dear Mr. Wizard,
Your name will not be forgotten for a long time. Thank You.
Rev. Joseph P Hildebrandt Sr
June 15, 2007
Thanks for making the boring become exciting and being an even kiel gentleman. May God richly bless you and your family!
Michael Lewis
June 15, 2007
Thank you for showing me and a lot of people a good time. My prayers are with your family. May they find a way to support each other in your departure.
Laura Penney
June 15, 2007
Thank you, Mr. Wizard! It was you that piqued my first interest in Science when I was just a little girl. I was glad to recently be able to share some of those same moments with my own children when your program was re-visited through reruns. Your genius and gentle manner while explaining your experiments will never be forgotten. RIP Mr. Wizard...
Robert Watkins
June 15, 2007
God Bless his family.
Bob & Edith Stamper
June 15, 2007
To the family, friends, and fans of Don Herbert, " Mr. Wizard " ---
God Bless You ! Thank God for You !
I used to watch Mr. Wizard even when the kids were not around. He made everything so simple and entertaining. I would still watch them today even though we have no grandchildren. Don was a wonderful person !
I didn't know he was one of our WW2 pilot's. Thank God for these heroes that gave so much so we can be free.
May God's Healing, Blessing, Grace, and Tender Mercies remain forever with the family, friends, and fans of Don Herbert. We pray the Guidance, Grace, and Love of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you plus the Comfort of our Holy Spirit.
Psalm 71:5 (King James Bible)
For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth.
Romans 15:33 (King James Bible)
Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.
Barbara
June 15, 2007
Thank you Mr. Wizard for making science magical! The world needs more people like you.
My condolences to Mr. Herbert's family. May your wonderful memories help you through this difficult time.
Mickey RN
June 15, 2007
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Mr. Wizard has many friends whom he introduced to the sciences. Thank you.
Denis Gould
June 14, 2007
Thank You Mr Wizard, for your talented and gifted efforts. You were a joy to experience and learn from.
Barbara Slater
June 14, 2007
My thanks to the wonderful Wizard of Ahhs! and my condolences to his family - I'm sure you miss him very much. He was my first science teacher - and I think he was the best, because the foundation he laid has lasted, rock-solid and steady, through all the years since. =)
Michael Greathouse
June 14, 2007
I big fan of his show so I well miss him.
Aaron O'dwyer
June 14, 2007
I am so very sorry to here about
The Drath in Your Family
Your Prayers are with your Family at this Time of need
Barbie Christou
June 14, 2007
To Jay B. Herbert & Family,
I offer my deepest condolences. May loving memories be with you at your time of sorrow. I'm very sad for your loss Jay.
With much love, your favorite ex-secretary... Barbie
D.L. ZIMMERMAN
June 14, 2007
THANK YOU MISTER WIZZARD, YOU TAUGHT US ALL WELL. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, REST IN PEACE DON HERBERT
John Masiero
June 14, 2007
Thank you Mr. Wizard for the great introduction to science. Although I never became a professional scientist, I have always used the analytical methods. Yours was my favorite TV show way back in the fifties. You truly inspired a generation of youths. Until we "Meet Mr. Wizard".
Camellia Fichtler
June 14, 2007
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Jeff Keene SR
June 14, 2007
Bless you, Don. You enlightened me as to the many wonders of science during my "wonder years". I am 62 now and I think of you many times whenever I'm tinkering at my workbench. Rest in peace until we surely meet again.
B. Cornelison
June 14, 2007
Oh Mr. Wizard, rest in peace you wonderful man. You were such an inspiration. Blessings to you.
Jerry Lyle
June 14, 2007
Mr. Wizard touched more lives than he could have ever known, and I suspect that was ok by him. He taught me to think through problems to find the solution. God bless you Mr. Wizard.
a student from
June 14, 2007
Mr. Wizard
Because of you, science is fun!! Thank you for your wonderful sense of sharing and teaching.
Linda A
June 14, 2007
Thank you for teaching us how to learn.
Melissa
June 14, 2007
I remember watching Mr. Wizard while I was growing up, thank you for everything you gave to us. May you rest in peace dear man.
John Estlow
June 14, 2007
Don Herbert taught my buddys and myself how to be good guys and have fun with science. Thanks for your inspiration.
E. J. Gilbert
June 14, 2007
Mr Wizard/Herbert showed me that science is fun; he sparked an interest that has enriched my entire life.
Dale Amburgey
June 13, 2007
Thank you for many fond memories, Mr. Wizard.
C. Polk
June 13, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mark Perlman
June 13, 2007
I never missed a "Mr. Wizard" episode. Mr. Herbert made science fun as well as understandable. Almost every experiment that I copied worked. Much to the chagrin of my mother, the volcano worked too well.
Doug Walter
June 13, 2007
Thank you Mr. Wizard, thank you!
We could use you now.
Christopher J. Puterbaugh
June 13, 2007
GOD BLESS YOU MR. WIZARD...THANK YOU FOR ALL THE RIGHT ANSWERS.
D P
June 13, 2007
THANKS FOR ALL THAT YOU TAUGHT ME MR. WIZARD. YOU WERE AMAZING!
michelle bradley
June 13, 2007
i can still remember watching mr wizard on tv as a child and wouldn't miss it if i was away from home and it came on i would make them change the channel so i could watch it,
K PITTMAN
June 13, 2007
MR WIZARD YOU WERE THE GREATEST SCIENCE GUY ON NICKELODEON MAY YOU REST IN PEACE
GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY
Rick Robert
June 13, 2007
I always remember your wonderful lessons about science. You made all of us look at the world differently. Thank you and rest in peace.
R Cela
June 13, 2007
Mr. Wizard inspired me as a child of the 1980s to get interested in science and technology, which led to my career today.
Kids today need more examples like Don Herbert. There just isn't the kind of educational television for children as there once was.
He gave so much to us with his gentle and yet awe-inspiring instruction.
My condolences to his family.
Tommy Killoren
June 13, 2007
What he taught me about Millitorrs and gages has left a lasting impression. He will be remembered by so many.
jane shrenkel
June 13, 2007
there are so many of us children of the "50's" who remember Mr. Wizard and owe him so much. he was a "friend" who taught us to love science and learning. he has impacted thousands of lives and influenced career choices. what a wonderful legacy. although i became a lawyer, i am still fascinated by all things science. i always wondered what happened to him. thank you Mr. Wizard for giving me and so many others so much. rest in peace. jane S. Valley Stream, N.Y.
B Kacergis
June 13, 2007
My condolences to the Herbert family. My son used to watch his show with my father in law early in the mornings. That was their special time together.
Juliette Stutter
June 13, 2007
Oh so many hours devoted to and delighted by Mr. Wizard, someone should post all the shows online so we can show our kids someday! My sympathies to his family and friends.
Nancy Jordan Bambenek
June 13, 2007
As a youngster, I watched you with my brothers and sisters. Your way of relating to kids has definitely impacted the way I teach. AND, you taught me to love science and to be curious. Thank you.
David Packer
June 13, 2007
I am so sorry to learn of the passing of Mr. Herbert. Bless his heart. He was such a big part of my childhood. His show was both entertaining and educational. My heartfelt sympathy to Mr. Herbert's family. God bless you.
Bob
June 13, 2007
He sparked a love for science and the wonders of the natural world that still burn brightly inside me today, a love and respect for science that I shared with my daughters over the years.
God Bless you, Mr. Wizard. And thank you for inspiring me to always value the joy of wonder and discovery.
Dionisia Munoz
June 13, 2007
My conolences to the Herber Family.
I enjoyed watching Mr. Wizard all those years ago, I hated science, but he always made it so much fun, and it was always so exciting to sit and watch what new adventure we were taking that day with Mr. Wizard. Television needs more people like him now days.
Susan
June 13, 2007
The world is dark and lonely
when the ones you love are dead.
Your food is left untasted
and your books remain unread.
Your sleepless nights are empty
as you pace the bedroom floor;
your body aches with sorrow
and your soul is sick and sore.
In your pain and desolation,
take some time out to reflect.
Too much emphasis on mourning
shows your loved one disrespect.
Let them live on in your laughter,
put aside your anguished strife,
and enhance their hereafter
by continuing your life.
While you are mourning the loss of a loved one, others are rejoicing to meet them behind the veil.
Marie C.
June 13, 2007
Thanks for the fond memories, Mr. Wizard.
Rich
June 13, 2007
I really loved the Mr. Wizard show. He probably had much to do with my life long love of science and my inquisitive nature. He will definitely be missed. My sincere condolences to his family
George Bigaouette
June 13, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
I watched his shows faithfully and later became a US Army helicopter pilot.
Terry Gips
June 13, 2007
You were my inspiration. I will always be grateful and never forget what you taught -- curiosity and a love of learning. I bring your teachings into my work on sustainability at the Alliance for Sustainability and Sustainability Associates.
With Love and Appreciation,
Lon Miller
June 13, 2007
You didn't just make science cool - you made being scientific cool, to me at least. You, with the help of a few good teachers, helped me discover and develop one of my great interests in life. Thank you.
H. Ross Wambolt
June 13, 2007
You will be always be remembered by our generation, Mr. Wizard. Many of us "Boomers" watched your show every week with amazement and joy. You were truly an inspiration to us. I've been in the Aerospace business most of my career and can recall nicknaming very smart associates "Mr. Wizard" from time to time based on your example! God Bless you and all of your family and thank you for the wounderful memories of times much less complex than today.
Dave Baron
June 13, 2007
An eleventh birthday gift of "Mr. Wizard's Science Secrets" in 1952 got me excited about science and a career in engineering. Almost 30 years later, he autographed the book when he visited a technology exhibition in Minneapolis.
Thanks for your start on my fascinating journey.
Steve Bloden
June 13, 2007
My life is so much better because of Don. I just loved his way. He will be missed. Thanks for the science
Kevin Kirley
June 13, 2007
A television icon for those of us who grew up in this era. You are the best and you'll be remembered warmly.
Muffy
June 13, 2007
My condolences to the friends and family of Mr. Herbert.
He was a great man, who quietly led three generations of young people (including me) to pursue careers in science and medicine.
We all miss you!
Cara, Mike and Kerri Hansen
June 13, 2007
To Jay, Lucile, Jason, Marisa and Nico, Our sincere and heartfelt condolences on your loss....The Hansens
Randall Noon
June 13, 2007
Thank you so very much, Mr. Wizard. You gave me the gift of science for which I will always be grateful.
Joan Kanaski
June 13, 2007
Oh, Mr. Wizard...how you have touched our world! My childhood in the late 50's and early 60's, sitting with my little brother on the couch watching everything you did and being amazed!! When I grew up, my 2 sons and later, my daughter, would do chores around the house when we finally got a VCR so I would buy them tapes. Then, they would play them forward, backward, and VERY SLOWLY, so they could analyze everything that happened! Their little 5&6 year old heads together, huddled on the couch or laying on the floor so they didn't miss a move!! Those are some of my sweetest memories, and that I got to share one of my childhood hero's with MY kids was terrific! I KNOW God blessed our world with you, Don! I pray that your family will be comforted with all the ways you touched all the lives you did, and left such a legacy of people in the fields of science and more who have been patiently teaching the future generations due to your inspiration! God be with you all, Herbert family and friends!
Dave Haugen
June 13, 2007
I remember looking forward to Mr. Herbert's show, and applaud him for all he gave to the kids (me included, yes still at heart!)
Roger Sandhoff
June 13, 2007
I watched every show you had and that shaped my life for the last 60 years. God Bless.
DAVID K NOLLER
June 13, 2007
Mr. Wizzard, my profession as an engineer was all because of you. The world has lost a great frient.
A Farrell
June 13, 2007
Oh my, reading about Mr. Wizard's death brought back so many memories of watching his show and having science come alive as something for chldren to love. He inspired me. So sorry, but I think he had a good life.
Leon Franklin
June 13, 2007
Thanks Mr. Wizard for making my childhood Saturday mornings so special. Don Herbert made science and learning cool and I'm sure contributed to my advanced studies in science. R.I.P.
David Sarosi
June 13, 2007
Mr. Wizard helped make science fascinating. I have no doubt that he helped influence me in the direction of a career in science. For all the mysteries he was able to explain, now he is getting to discover the truth of the greatest mystery we shall all face. Thanks for making learning fun Mr. Wizard.
Helen
June 13, 2007
Thank you (Mr.Wizard),for all you did.My prayer are with the Herbert Family.
Diana B
June 13, 2007
I grew up watching Mr. Wizard. He was simply wonderful! I'm sure he inspired many, many children to explore the world of science that may not have done so otherwise.
Rick Lendley
June 13, 2007
Rest In Peace MR. Wizard, You where one of my childhood icons...Thanks for all the neat things you taught us!
Bill Byrd
June 13, 2007
Thanks Don, I owe my life in Science to your inspiration. Your students took us to the Moon and beyond. We will see you there again. God bless your family.
Jim Danna
June 13, 2007
My dad grew up watching Mr. Wizard back in the 1950's, and I grew up watching the same inspiration during the 80's! Thanks for all the great thought-provoking science.
J M
June 13, 2007
What a great teacher, made it fun and enjoyable, watched many years ago. Rest in Peace!
Richard Halpert
June 13, 2007
I am again saddened to learn of the passing of one of our generation's truly wonderful people. A true blue citizen of this great country and a part of what has made it so great. You will be missed.
Michelle Drak
June 13, 2007
Thank you for all the cool things you showed us. It was my favorite show growing up!
Frank Northcutt
June 13, 2007
I loved his show, as a child. I am now an engineer, due in part to his inspiration. He truly made science exciting to kids like me. Rest in peace, Mr. Wizard.
T. Stearns
June 13, 2007
I grew and learned watching him.
Randall Dailey
June 13, 2007
I will miss you.. I watched you when I was a child.. I LOVED YOUR SHOW.....................
Dave Coviello
June 13, 2007
People like Don Herbert are rare and special. To be able to speak to so many when much of the media is a waste of time is truly a testament to his gifts. Many of us have gone into science due to special people like Mr. Wizard, Dr. Jullian Miller, and our great science teacher and professors we have been privledged to be with. Our parents, also deserve special mention in forstering our love of the wonders of the world around us.
God Bless you!
A Friend
June 13, 2007
A truly great inspiration to rhe baby boom generation.
Mr. Herbert's knowledge and the respect for science and kids made it fun to be a kid of the 1950's.
May God bless you and the Herbert family.
Bill Jones
June 13, 2007
Thank you Mr. Wizard for all you did for the rest of us. I may not have ended up in the scientific field but you were a great role model for me.
Rest in Peace.
Myra
June 13, 2007
"Mr. Wizard" you gave me an enjoyable time watching your shows learned alot as a kid. You will be missed thanks for all the fun saturdays we did most of the experiments and mom and dad didn't really mind us making messes. God bless you.Dear Herbert family you are in our prayers.
Jess Mikkelson
June 13, 2007
You were an inspiration to many, Mr. Wizard. You will be missed.
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