Herman Day

Herman Day passed away June 4, 2015, in Billings. We celebrate his textured history and his passion for life, which he enjoyed most when he was in the company of family and friends.

Born Herman Diaz in Chapa Chapa, Vera Cruz, Mexico, on Dec. 23, 1926, to Louis and Amada Day (Diaz y Pumarino), he grew up in Billings. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1944, and served in the Pacific during World War II. After his service, he graduated from Billings Senior High in 1947. He married Beverly Whittington in November 1947, and, together, they raised four children in Billings.

Herman had a 38-year career as a painter of neon and plastic signs and enjoyed being able to proudly point to his work on storefronts, building tops or wherever it was displayed. He expressed his creative flair through craftsmanship and in photos that capture his love of nature and landscape.

Our memories of Herman are rich and many. We knew him as a devoted and generous father, uncle and friend. There was frequently a camera in his hand, a magic trick up his sleeve and a joke or story to be told. Herman was a welcome and appreciative guest at the tables of family and friends. He greeted all with a friendly smile, so even strangers were soon friends. Most recently, he shared his warm spirit and sense of humor with many at Fischer Cottage at St. John's.

Herman was preceded in death by his son Steve Day; his sisters Delia (Dal) Hofferber and Amada (Neetz) Strom; and his parents, Louis and Amada Day. He is survived by his brothers Louie Day and Ruben Day (Nancy); his children Doug Day (Vonnie), Bruce Day (Cathy) and Cherie Rockstrom (Dave); daughter-in-law Berdine (Day) Isaacs; grandchildren Steve Day Jr., Dustin Day, Tucker Day, Jackson Day, Rachel Clark, Zach Day, Matthew Rockstrom, MacKensie Rockstrom and Macie Rockstrom; a great-granddaughter, Willow Clark; and his many "favorite" nieces and nephews.

A vigil to remember Herman and celebrate his life will be held Monday, June 8, at 7 p.m., at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, June 9, at 11 a.m., at St. Pius X Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John's Lutheran Ministries in Billings.

Remembrances may be shared by visiting www.michelottisawyers.com.