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Luke Herring Obituary
Luke Alexander Wright Herring, age 26, formerly of Newton, died on September 11, 2012 in a drowning accident while herding cattle along the Yellowstone River in Big Horn, Montana.
He was born on July 20, 1986 in Anoka, Minnesota to Dr. Mark and Mrs. Sally Herring. Luke graduated from high school in 2004 and received an Associates Degree from UW Manitowoc in 2006. He earned his Bachelors Degree in Accounting from Lakeland College, Sheboygan in 2008. After college, Luke did ranching and wrangling work in Colorado, Nebraska and Montana.
He is survived by his parents: Dr. Mark and Mrs. Sally Herring, Newton; seven brothers and sisters: Dr. Joseph (Mary) Herring, Manitowoc, Amy (Michael) Bianchi, Randolph, WI, Marissa Herring, Cedarburg, WI and her fiancé Philip Reichwaldt, Manitowoc, Matthew Herring, Kathryn Herring, John Herring, and Anne Herring all at home; paternal grandparents: James and Ethel Herring, Marion, Iowa; maternal grandparents: John and Dorothy Goes, Wauwatosa; two nieces and one nephew: Grace Bianchi, Caitlyn and Patrick Herring. Numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins also survive. He was preceded in death by his godmother and aunt Barbara Fassbinder.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 25, 2012 at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Whitelaw, WI. Officiating at the Mass of Christian Burial will be Canon Andreas Hellmann with burial to follow at St. Fidelis Cemetery, Newton, WI.
The family will greet relatives and friends on Monday evening, September 24, 2012 at the Pfeffer Funeral Home, Manitowoc, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. where a Rosary Service will conclude the visitation.
The Pfeffer Funeral Home, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangement.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Luke Herring
Gail Seybold Bullington
September 17, 2023
There is a beautiful lookout in the mountains at Rainbow Trout Ranch. It is named after Luke. It is a beautiful place to remember Luke.
October 21, 2012
My heartfelt sympathies go out to those that loved Luke the most. I remember him as a real cowboy, tough and soft spoken and the kind of guy you could trust with anything or to do whatever he was asked to do. I will pray for his family and friends as they grieve the loss of an excellant man. Mark Muller Pueblo West, Colorado
Marlene King
October 17, 2012
I visited the RTR in 2010. Luke was a quiet, thoughtful, capable young man. His influence and kind ways will be missed. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy.
Michelle Mullins
October 17, 2012
It was a pleasure to meet Luke at the RTR. He was a kind, confident, quiet wrangler with a beautiful smile. May your memories of him help comfort you now and allow him to be forever in your heart.
Mike Wise
October 16, 2012
I was at RTR for both of the years that Luke was there. To me Luke was the quintessential cowboy. He was very observant and though he didn't talk a lot, what he said was always worth hearing. We had some good talks on the trail rides I did with him. I had the privilege of meeting part of Luke's family when you visited him at the ranch in 2009. I can't imagine the loss that you must feel. I will be praying that God will comfort you in the days ahead. It is a privilege to have known your son.
October 16, 2012
I am so sad to hear that Luke has passed.
My wife and I met Luke at RTR and we enjoyed his company. I have been around
a few real cowboys in my life and Luke was one of them. May God belss his soul.
David Penka
Tulsa, Ok
Kathy Savage
October 15, 2012
My heart stopped…when I heard from Rainbow Trout of Luke's tragic accident. Through out our lives many people come in and out but only a special few touch our hearts. While our visits to Rainbow Trout, we were honored to have Luke as our guide many times. While on breaks, I would talk with him about our common interest accounting and of course the love of horses. My heart goes out to his family and friends…..we can never understand why a life so young is taken, but I know he is in heaven riding through the sun set and watching over those he loves.
Gail Bullington
October 15, 2012
Neal and Gail Bullington
October 15, 2012
We met Luke at RTR and rode with him for the 2 years he was a wrangler there. We had small talk on a ride and discovered that we both graduated from the same small college in Wisconsin, Lakeland College. Although it was 36 years apart, we had fun talking about the way the small school and changed, but was still the same. I kidded him and said we should sing the Alma Mater song at the Talent Show. He quietly said, "No Way!" (It was an awful 19th century song?)
I loved to ride with him. He was quiet, patient, and his blue eyes could be matched only by the blue Colorado sky. He didn't talk alot, but when he did it was worth listening to.
He said he studied business, and I could only imagine him on a horse, not in an office. He said he was going to be a wrangler as long as he could, and he is and will always be a cowboy.
Marion Penka
October 15, 2012
Luke was a real cowboy! Quiet like a cowboy. So sad he's gone. Thoughts and prayers to his loved ones.
Gavin Mackinnon
October 15, 2012
I remember Luke well, Summer 1010. Sitting back on his heels,and in his deep voice, knowledgably and patiently providing an answer to some daft question I had asked. I remember his wry smile when quietly amused, while sitting quietly in a group. To a non rider, his confidence around the horses was something to behold. A lovely "Lad" as we say here, and a privilege to have met him, even if too briefly.
Alex Carnako
October 15, 2012
We met Luke at the Rainbow Trout Ranch in 2009. I don´t think that my wife, María would have ever gotten on a horse had it not been for his patience and reassuring confidence. We had a wonderful week at the ranch due in no small part to Luke. Our sincerest condolences to his family.
Kathy Saradarian
October 14, 2012
We met Luke at RTR in 2009. I remember being out on a ride and asking Luke if any of the wranglers did trick riding (there was one our previous trip to RTR) and he quickly replied "Not on purpose."
He will be remembered for his quick wit and his quiet ways.
We are very sorry for your loss and hope these memories help you through your grief.
RTR 2009
Kathy Saradarian
October 14, 2012
RTR 2009
Kathy Saradarian
October 14, 2012
RTR 2009
Kathy Saradarian
October 14, 2012
Patricia Miller
October 14, 2012
We had the pleasure of meeting this young man on our first visit to RTR. He was the quiet cowboy with a slow drawl and sweet smile. I recall vividly sitting on top of Charity, Luke was our wrangler, thinking what a beautiful place. He sat quietly looking out over the barn, the lodge and the mountains with quiet contentment. He truly was a cowboy, in every sense of the word.
nic Scoble
October 14, 2012
I had the pleasure of meeting Luke at the Lonesome Spur last October. such a great guy , our thought are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
The Struble Family
October 14, 2012
We met Luke at Rainbow Trout Ranch and we had him as a wrangler for two years in a row. Always on the quiet side but with a smile as "big as Texas". We will always remember his deep votive and laugh. An all around great guy who will be terribly missed. God just received another "Angel" in heaven. Rest in Peace Luke!
Carl & Tonja Gates
October 14, 2012
Luke was such a nice young man. It was a pleasure meeting and riding with him at the RTR. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Allison Kramer
October 14, 2012
Allison Kramer and the Webster family had the pleasure of riding with and dining with Luke at the Rainbow Trout Ranch. He was a quiet man but had a wonderful sense of humor and a sly smile. We will miss him very much. Our condolences to his family.
William "Bo" Rogers
October 11, 2012
I had the great pleasure to have ridden with Luke at the Lonesome Spur Ranch last October. Such a gentle and caring man anyone could have known. I will forever remember our time together. He will be missed by all his friends here in Alabama
karen rayton
October 11, 2012
i was lucky to have met luke while he was wrangling at the lonesome spur ranch, he was a quiet, kind, helpful young man. he will be missed by all who have had the pleasure of meeting him.
Jane Atkinson
October 11, 2012
I had the pleasure of meeting Luke on two occasions whilst staying at the Lonesome Spur Ranch in Montana. He was the kindest gentlest and quietly funny man and I deem it a pleasure to have known him. He looked after me during my stays and he will always be part of Montana to me.
My thoughts and sympathies are with his family.
JAne Atkinson
October 11, 2012
I had the pleasure of meeting Luke on two occasions whilst staying at the Lonesome Spur Ranch. He was the kindest quietest of wranglers and I deem it an honour to have known him. To say he will be missed is an understatement but I will always remember him with his lovely grin and great sense of humour.
October 11, 2012
I will always remember Lukes blue eyes and his cheeky smile,such a blessing to have met and spent time with such a lovely, genuine man. He spent the day with us driving us around to see wild horses, we quizzed him on everything and anything, he told us alot of great stories about some of his experiences, including being stalked by a mountain lion!
Lost but never forgotten xxx
luke outside frannies saddlery
Gemma Hale
October 11, 2012
I met luke in october 2011 at lonesome spur ranch. Luke was a true gentleman, i feel very lucky to have met such a wonderful man, I spent a day with him and four others driving in the mountains looking for wild horses and he was telling us stories of naughty horses he'd ridden and one night when he was stalked by a mountain lion!
So very sorry for your loss
Tara Tooley
October 7, 2012
I had the pleasure and the privilage of meeting and riding with Luke at The Lonesome Spur last year. A true gent - the strong silent type who made our group of '40 something' ladies swoon and giggle like schoolgirls with his deep drawling 'Yes ma'am'. My thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends. I know how treasured every memory and photograph will be and have uploaded all my pictures of Luke to the gallery. It's so so sad x
Cowboy walk June 2011
Tara Tooley
October 7, 2012
Cowboy walk June 2011
Tara Tooley
October 7, 2012
June 2011
Tara Tooley
October 7, 2012
The ultimate cowboy x June 2011
October 7, 2012
June 2011
October 7, 2012
June 2011
October 7, 2012
June 2011
October 7, 2012
June 2011
October 7, 2012
June 2011
October 7, 2012
Luke and Dave
October 6, 2012
8 June 2011
Shiela Haviland
October 5, 2012
Luke left behind a great legacy. We can't ask for more than that. My Dad always said “Live your life the way you want to be remembered”. Luke did that. His parents should be very proud of the man they raised. He died doing what he loved. As a horse person myself, there can be no better way to go. He is riding his horse into heaven.
Carla Lintott
October 5, 2012
Luke, you made our stay at the lonesome spur ranch Montana the best holiday ever, we only knew you for a short time but you were such a jenuin man, your friends and family are very lucky to of known you longer , Vicki and I always talk about the day up the mountain , you really made us laugh !! Such a sad loss xx
David Blackmore
October 5, 2012
I rode with Luke as a guest at the Lonesome Spur. He was a great guy, it was a privilege to know him, albeit briefly. My deepest condolences go to his family.
Teddie Backett
October 4, 2012
Luke this is a message for you. I hope where you are now you are cared for safe and that the love you all had from your family and friends carries you forward and lights the path for you. You opened up a new world for me when I came to Montana and gave me even more confidence to do the thing I love be with the horses so that I can now pass that on to my friends and family. Will be thinking about you. X xx
June 2011
Claire O'Toole
October 4, 2012
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Luke. I was priviledged to have met him at Lonsome Spur and have such fond memories of his skill, modesty, kindness and quiet humour.A tragic loss
Julie and Dave Luscombe
October 4, 2012
To Luke's family. We also met Luke at Lonesome Spur. He was a fantastic man, liked and respected by everyone who met him. We are thinking of you all at this terrible time.
Beth Moschetti
October 4, 2012
Too lukes family, I recently found out about lukes passing, I met Luke in Montana were he was a wrangler, I just wanted to tell you he was so well respected and kind and very respectfull of everyone, such a gentelman and a kind soul.I am sure you were very proud of him. He surley is one of Gods angles now.
September 28, 2012
We are so sad to hear about Luke's death. We met him at RTR and rode with him for two years. We had wonderful rides and have wonderful memories. We send our sympathy to Luke's family and friends.
Joe and Nancy Brant
Kyle Hicks
September 28, 2012
Deep, thoughtful, and caring, Luke was one of the most kindhearted people that I have ever met in my life. I consider myself lucky to have been able to ride with, talk with, and laugh with such a wonderful person. I just hope that he can sense how much everyone will miss him.
Nick Buttorff
September 28, 2012
I met Luke at RTR and I'll never forget some of the memories I had with him. The most memorable was a ride Luke and I took up to Wrangler's Point to clear logs, which has a great overlook of the Valley. We sat on the rock point for 45 minutes at least taking in the beautiful day. The great memories I have with Luke will always be special.
My love goes out to Luke's family and friends, he will be truly missed.
Nick Buttorff
September 28, 2012
Luke was a great guy. I met Luke at RTR and I'll never forget some of the memories I had with him. The most memorable was a ride Luke and I took up to Wrangler's Point to clear logs, which has a great overlook of the Valley. We sat on the rock point for 45 minutes at least taking in the beautiful day.
My love goes out to Luke's family and friends. The great memories I have with Luke will always be special and close to me. I hope Luke's family celebrates his memories and such a fine gentleman.
Luke in 2009 at Rainbow Trout Ranch
September 28, 2012
Luke in 2010 at Rainbow Trout Ranch
September 28, 2012
Kevin Molteni
September 28, 2012
I learned of Luke's tragic accident this evening. I am so sorry for your loss. There are no adequate words...Know I will hold you all in my heart and prayers in the days ahead.
September 27, 2012
THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME....MAY LUKE ALWAYS WATCH OVER ALL OF YOU.
Luke with the foals at RTR
Karen and Mark Mortham
September 27, 2012
Luke and a guest at Emerald Lake - RTR
Karen and Mark Mortham
September 27, 2012
Luke with the foals at RTR
Karen and Mark Mortham
September 27, 2012
Karen and Mark Mortham
September 27, 2012
We truly enjoyed riding with Luke at RTR during our visits. He had a wonderful, gentle way about him and a great sense of humor. We loved to hear his deep laugh. Our hearts and prayers go out to your family. I've posted a few pictures I found that I hope you enjoy.
Bebe & Bob Groter
September 27, 2012
Luke was a great wrangler at Rainbow Trout Ranch where we met him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time and in the coming months.
September 27, 2012
I don't personally know any of Luke's family, but I do know him well. Working with Luke for two years as a co-wrangler at Rainbow Trout Ranch was such a huge blessing. His "I'm here to help" attitude was so great, and his smile and wit were contagious with everyone. He may not have said a ton of words, but he still said so much. I will always remember those few years. I want you to know, that although his life may have been short, he impacted so many, and will always be remembered with fond thoughts. My prayers are with your entire family through this difficult time and in the months ahead. God bless.
Tammi Jongkind
The Backcountry above Rainbow Trout Ranch overlooking La Jara Canyon
Deeno Buttorff
September 27, 2012
I met Luke when I was training the new RTR wranglers in his first year then. After that, he became a good friend. PNumerous rides and playing shuffleboard at my home will always provide many a grand memory. You will forever reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning, and that laughter is life's sweetest creation.
September 26, 2012
Our sincere sympathy on the loss of your son. Our hearts go out to you and yours. Prayers are with you. Linda Preiss and family (Ruth McCarthy's daughter)
Mary Tackett
September 25, 2012
Mark, Sally and family,
I am so deeply saddened by Luke's passing. I know too well the shock and sadness of a tragic accident. May your faith, friends and family help you through this difficult time. Please let me know if there is ever anything I can do.
You all remain in my prayers. I am so very sorry that I could not be there for the funeral but hope I can come soon and visit you all.
Love and prayers,
September 25, 2012
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
September 25, 2012
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Herring and Family....
We send our deepest condolences on the tragic loss of your beloved son. We keep you in our daily thoughts and prayers. Most sincerely, Susanna-Maria Schaus-Kane and Gerard Kane, Manitowoc
September 25, 2012
To Sally and Mark and your entire family: We are so sorry for your loss. I have warm memories of Luke as a boy and I am sure he turned into a fine man. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers, always. Megan, Grace, Tom Molteni, and their mom Nancy
Todd and Rosie Nelson
September 25, 2012
Our thoughts are with you and your family.
September 25, 2012
The staff of Harwood Place Retirement Community would like to extend condolences to John and Dorothy Goes and their entire family. We are so sad for your loss.
Cathy Buchner
September 25, 2012
I am so sorry for this tremendous loss within your family. My heart and prayers are with all of you.
Chris/Keith Kocourek/Schroeder
September 25, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Herring family at this time.
September 25, 2012
Our hearts are sad for the Herring family. Know that members of your 4-H family are grieving at your side.
Barb & Megan Pritzl
c j kabat
September 25, 2012
my sympathy to you and your family at your time of loss. you always take such good care of my parents and i know that God will keep Luke in his care as you do with your patients every day.
love and prayers to you and your family.
September 24, 2012
I am so sorry for you loss, We extend our prayers to you family! Tasha Kumar, Kay E. Duescher-kind .
Mary & Gary Evenson
September 24, 2012
Mark, Sally & Family-
It is hard to know what to say about such a tragedy, but wanted you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this trying time. May the love of family and friends bring you comfort and may the memories of Luke and the passing of time bring you peace.
Surinder and Sheila Rajpal
September 24, 2012
Our prayers and thoughts are with your entire family.
Brian & Amanda Sukowaty
September 24, 2012
Dear Herring Family,
We have been praying and thinking of you since we heard. You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. We pray God will give you strength during this difficult time knowing that He will never abandon you or forsake you. May God give you strength and guidance now and in the days ahead.
Randy and Elizabeth Hartlaub
September 24, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss. Although we didn't personally know Luke, his brother Joe is our veterinarian and we offer our prayers and support during this difficult time.
Lou Ann Herzog
September 24, 2012
Met the Herring family through 4-H years ago. What a lovely family. Our daughter Katie consideres Marissa a dear friend. God truly blesses us with children as he has blessed you with many. Why he takes them back prematurely ....we will not understand. I ask God to give you courage to bear the sorrow you feel as Luke goes 'home' before you.
Lou Herzog and family
Carrie (Kocourek) & Wayne Heran
September 24, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies.
September 24, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this difficult time.
Rob & Chris Ash Family Newton, WI
September 24, 2012
Our thought and prayers are with your family in this difficult time.
Ron and Kathy Braun
September 24, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of great loss.
September 24, 2012
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
September 24, 2012
Luke was a member of the Rainbow Trout Ranch family, as am I. I am sad to see him go, glad to have known him for the time he worked for the Rainbow. Condolences to his family and loved ones.
Russ & Penny Wampler
September 24, 2012
May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead.
Steve & Jan Sanders
September 24, 2012
Mark & Sally, Please accept our deepest sympathy. Luke obviously was following his passion and lived his dreams. When the pain lessens, you'll have good memories knowing this. Steve & Jan Sanders
Jay Meissen
September 24, 2012
To Marissa and the Herring family, I would like to extend my sympathies to you during these difficult times. May God bless you all!
September 23, 2012
Luke was with us for two summers here at the Rainbow Trout Ranch and we have nothing but good things to say about him. We have named a point overlooking the valley after him, Luke's Lookout, and we will remember him always. We are honored to have had him in our lives.
The Van Berkum Family.
(Doug, Linda, David and Jane.)
Bill & Betty Carlin
September 23, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.
Robin and Jim Zauche
September 23, 2012
Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you as you mourn the loss of your son and brother.
Robin and Jim Zauche
The Forgan Family
September 23, 2012
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of Luke. We knew him when he worked at my sister's ranch in Colorado. I remember my husband and girls (who loved his deep voice :) (they were 6 then) helped him fix his truck. He was quiet, unassuming, and a pleasure to be around. My heart aches for you all.
Dennis&Kay Wergin
September 23, 2012
Words cannot express the sympathy we send to you.It is never Gods intent for parents to bury their child.
Janie Homer-Rogers
September 23, 2012
The "Homer" family will always remember Luke for his and Mark's support during our loss of Marcia. Our hearts break for all of you! Wished we could be there for you. Many prayers have been sent your way.
Dwayne and Christy Crawford
September 23, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. May God be with you during this time.
Al and Sheri Hartman and family
September 23, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Deepest sympathy on the loss of Luke to the whole Herring family.
September 23, 2012
Our sympathies to the Herring family on the loss of your son.
Henry and Kari Langenhahn
Lynn Franz
September 23, 2012
So sorry for you loss.. Dr. Herring I worked with you at the Health Clinic doing clinicals.. This was so tragic but you were in my thoughts and prayers the whole time.. So sorry again..
September 22, 2012
My husband and I care very much for your parents Ethel and Jim. We extend our many prayers to all of you and will be holding you in our hearts. May our Heavenly Father hold you close too.
Gaylord and Mary Hauschildt
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