Herbert Joseph Hoelter, a pioneering figure in criminal justice reform and a beloved community leader, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 20, 1950, in Yonkers, NY, Herb was the third of eight children born to Herbert J. Hoelter Sr. and Helen Parker Hoelter.

Herb's family moved outside of Buffalo, NY, where he graduated from Bishop Duffy High School in Niagara Falls, NY where he was captain of the basketball team and played football. Herb earned a Bachelor of Arts from the Univ. of Buffalo and a Master of Social Work from Marywood University. His early career Herb worked directing a youth diversion program at the Niagara Falls Police Dept., which exposed him to the injustices in the juvenile justice system and fueled his commitment for reform.

In 1977, Herb moved to Balt., MD where he would leave a lasting impact. He co-founded the National Center on Institutions and Alternatives (NCIA) serving as Chairman and CEO for more than 43 years. He believed everyone deserved a second chance and his legacy mission continues today at NCIA. Herb fueled his mission and became known nationally and internationally as a sentencing expert and high profile white collar legal consultant.

Herb's personal life was filled with love. In 1969 he married Susan Marie O'Keefe and together welcomed their three children, Jeffrey, Sarah, and Katherine. His early passions included running triathlons, golfing, cars and coaching his children and teams at St. William of York, Institute of Notre Dame and the Park School. After 30 years of marriage, Susan passed away in 2000.

Herb found love again with Martha Jane Ginn, whom he married in 2002. They enjoyed time spent with their 10 grandchildren, beaches in Avalon and St. Kitts, international travel where they made many friends, reading books by the pool and could always be found tailgating at Ravens games and cheering on the O's.

Herb leaves behind his wife Martha, his children Jeffrey (Jillian) Hoelter, Sarah (Bryant) Coble, Katherine (Summer) Hoelter, 10 grandchildren, siblings Joan (Larry) Castellani, Melanie (Sally) Hoelter, Peter (Sue) Hoelter and Moria (Danny) Saviola. He was predeceased in death by his parents, Herbert and Helen Hoelter, as well as sisters Margaret Weber and MaryBeth Mollo and his brother Mark Hoelter.

Details regarding a memorial service to honor Herb will be shared in the coming days. In lieu flowers the family requests donations to the NCIA Foundation, continuing Herb's life mission. Services will be scheduled in the near future. Please check www.candlelightfuneralhome.com for updated information.

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Published by Baltimore Sun on May 12, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Herbert Hoelter

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2 Entries

Candis Coxe

May 10, 2024

The first time I met Herb was when he brought Martha up from Baltimore to Wyomissing to celebrate my Mother´s birthday. She had had eye surgery and couldn´t drive so he told her he would take her. She brought a bottle of Veuve Cliquot. They had just met. He charmed everyone, especially my Mother, and fit right in. We toasted with the champagne, went to dinner and danced. When they left, I told her that they would get married, which of course they did, and were married 22 great years. They had a beautiful wedding, to the tune of "Eidelweiss", with my parents and me there.
He was a fantastic cook- would turn out huge meals of Baltimore crabs for large groups effortlessly .

I will remember him as the life of the party and the most fun to be around. I will miss him terribly.

Jack Maloney

May 5, 2024

I knew " Herbie" while participating in basketball at St. Patrick´s grade school in Erie, Pa. His squad won the state championship , and I was a younger member in the 6´th grade. Herbie later relocated to another city with his family, and would go on to become a recognized Criminal Justice Reform leader, husband and father , strong asset to the Baltimore community and beyond, etc. I myself recall that " Herbie" was dedicated toward improving his skills on the basketball court, had a great personality and enjoyed his limited time spent on Erie´s lower eastside." Herbie" now has eternal peace in God´s heavenly kingdom.

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