Herman Rice

Rice, Herman Age 81, of St. Louis Park, passed away Nov 13th. Preceded in death by parents, Rose and Sam Rice; aunt, Rachel Rappaport and son, Steven "Shlomo". He is survived and missed by wife, Marlene (Malka); children, Gloria (Tim), Marc, Ed (Tess), Ron (Libbi); grandchildren, Mattea, Simon, Lilah, Elliott and feline friend, Knaidel. Dad grew up in St. Paul. In 1954 he married the woman of his dreams and they had 5 children. In 1961 he moved the family to Bellevue, WA to work for Pacific Trail Sportswear as their sportswear designer and eventually became a Vice President. In 1974 he moved the family back to MN and went on the road selling Pacific Trail sportswear. He won a number of sales awards including salesman of the year. He retired from Pacific Trail in 1987. Soon after he went to work for Pathway medical services, located at Methodist Hospital, as a driver and later a volunteer (he had 3000 volunteer hours since 2002 and a starring role in a medical education film). He also volunteered at Courage Center. He was a member of Beth El Synagogue for 30 years. He enjoyed his card and investment clubs, fishing, reading, and he was an avid TV sports fan. He enjoyed relaxing on the porch with mom as they watched the back yard wildlife. His wife, children and grandchildren were the light of his life. He took an active role in their lives and gave unconditional love. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother-in-law, good friend, and he was a true gentleman and Mensch. Dad will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him and he will be forever in our hearts and lives. Funeral service SUNDAY 2 PM, BETH EL SYNAGOGUE, 5224 W 26th St. St. Louis Park. Memorials to The Steven Gregory Rice fund at Beth El Synagogue or the Minneapolis JCC. SHIVA Sun. – Tue. 7 p.m. at Beth El Synagogue. Hodroff-Epstein 612-871-1234 Online Guestbook at: www.hodroffepstein.com
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.