Harold Windsand Herlich

On the morning of Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025, Harold Windsand Herlich of Gilbert, Arizona was called home to the loving arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ, at the age of 73. After a courageous six-week battle with cancer, Harold passed away peacefully at his home, entering into eternal glory just as the world prepared to celebrate the birth of the King he served so faithfully.

Harold was born on June 28, 1952, in Marquette, Michigan, to the late Harold and Marie (Windsand) Herlich. Harold's life was defined by his steadfast faith, his dedication to his family, and his hardworking spirit.

Harold was a proud graduate of Marquette High School's Class of 1970. On October 9, 1971, Harold married his high school sweetheart, Terri Irene Beauchamp. They spent nearly 50 wonderful years of marriage together and were blessed with 6 children. In their very early years of marriage, Terri joined Harold in Houghton, Michigan, where Harold earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University. His professional career led them to Illinois, where he dedicated over 30 years of service to Caterpillar Inc. until his retirement. Every last week of July and over the Christmas holidays Harold and Terri and their children traveled back to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to vacation and visit family. Traveling "home" twice a year was such a joy and was filled with many heartfelt memories. Harold and Terri moved to Laveen, Arizona in October 2018 to enjoy more of their retirement in the sunshine.

A lifelong athlete with a passion for the ice, Harold played hockey through high school and college, and most notably for the Peoria Blades from 1974 to 1979. He also served as an active member and in leadership positions at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church (Marquette Heights, IL), Living Hope Lutheran Church (Peoria, IL), Crosswalk (Laveen, AZ), and Peace Lutheran Church (Gilbert, AZ).

Following the passing of his sweetheart, Terri on January 2, 2020, the Lord brought a new season of companionship into Harold's life. On February 20, 2021, he married Mary Davis. For nearly five years, they shared a life together in Gilbert, Arizona.

Harold's greatest blessing is his family, whom he loved with a "Papa's" heart. He is survived by his second wife, Mary Herlich; and five of his children, Jessica (Paul) Zarling of West Bend, WI, Carrie (Pastor Ben) Blumer of Lakeville, MN, Elizabeth (John) Enter of Laveen, AZ, Timothy "TJ" (Lisa) Herlich of La Claire, IA, and Seth (Jenna) Herlich of Nashville, TN. He enjoyed getting to know Mary's children, Katrina (Chris) Headle and Ronald Bell along with Mary's grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was the proud "Papa" to 19 grandchildren: Samuel Zarling, Solomon (Cassidy) Zarling, Savannah Zarling, Stella Zarling, Simeon Zarling, Selah Zarling, Saxon Zarling, Ezra (Amelia) Blumer, Chloe (Andrew) Thompson, Elias Blumer, Addelynn Blumer, Amelia Enter, Gideon Enter, Liam Enter, Boaz Enter, Micah Herlich, Jackson Herlich, Mia Herlich, and Benjamin Herlich.

Harold is further survived by his two sisters, Susan (Steve) Nelson and Kaye (Michael) Jarski and families.

Harold was preceded in death by his first wife, Terri; his son, Brian Michael Herlich (April 16, 1996); and his parents, Harold and Marie Herlich.

While Harold will be deeply missed, his family finds profound peace in the promise of the Resurrection. He has finished his race, he has kept the faith, and he now rests in the presence of the Lord.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness." – 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Funeral Service Information:

Arizona Funeral Service
Friday, February 6, 2026
Lamb of God Lutheran Church
599 E Chandler Road
Phoenix, AZ
In the Ahwatukee foothills
4:00pm Funeral Service
Visitation/Refreshments to follow
Illinois Funeral Service
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Private family Committal at Pekin Lakeside Cemetery at 8:00am
Living Hope Lutheran Church
2110 Northmoor Road
Peoria, Illinois
10:00-11:00 Visitation
11:00 Funeral Service
Noon-1:30 Light Luncheon to follow
In honor of Harold Herlich, memorial contributions may be made to:

Northcross Church
19400 Ipava Ave
Lakeville, MN 55044

Peace Lutheran Church
15317 E. Riggs Road
Gilbert, AZ 85298
Crosswalk Church
PO Box 13
Laveen, AZ 85339