Herbert M. Lehr

Herbert M. Lehr

Herb passed away peacefully January 13, 2018, just shy of his 96th birthday. He was truly a member of the Greatest Generation. Born and raised in Manhattan, he graduated high school at 15, went to City College of NY before enlisting in the Army, where he worked on the bomb at Los Alamos, and then continued his scientific endeavors at Brookhaven National Laboratory. He married his much-loved wife, Pat, in 1948, and together they had 3 daughters: Susan, Meredith & Randy Lehr. In 1957, he moved the family across the country from NYC to Bellevue, to start a long and successful career at Boeing where he was happiest working in the space program, including on the Lunar Rover. He enjoyed a very happy retirement in Arizona with Pat for over 20 years, and then they returned to the Northwest in 2008 to be close to their family.

He and Pat were one of nine families that started Temple Sinai, the first Reform Jewish congregation on the East side, which grew into a large, close-knit community. He had an amazing mind, with an active, curious intellect. He began exercising in his mid-40s and stayed in shape the rest of his life, still exercising into his 90s. He adored Pat, was a fantastic caretaker for her as her health waned due to MS, and missed her terribly after she passed in 2012. He loved his 3 daughters unconditionally and supported them in everything they did, loved his sons-in-law and their families -- Bill Severson (Meredith), Mike Westberg (Randy), and Mike's two children, Lucas and Sydney -- and loved, loved, loved being "Poppa" to his two grandchildren, Steve and Alissa Severson. He was always so proud of all of his family and we were very proud of him. He was a very kind man, and aged with amazing grace, humor and love. We loved him and will miss him terribly. A celebration of his life will be held February 10, 2018, at Meredith's home. Remembrances to the MS Society.