Herbert P. Jannsen

Herbert P. Jannsen, 95, of Hampton Bays, New York, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29, 2026, due to natural causes.

Herbert was born on June 7, 1930, in Weinheim, Germany, to Thomas and Marie Jannsen. At the age of 1, he and his family moved to Foehr Island in the North Sea, about 50 miles from Denmark. While on the island, the Jannsen family operated a taxi and tour bus company. When his father passed away suddenly at the age of 48, Herbert took over the family business to help his mother and two sisters.

Herbert immigrated to the United States in 1952. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served from 1953 to 1955 in a combat zone during the Korean War, attaining the rank of Corporal in the Signal Corps.

Following his military service, Herbert was granted United States citizenship. He worked various jobs before establishing himself in the delicatessen business, eventually opening and operating several of his own establishments. In 1970, Herbert moved with his family to the East End of Long Island, where he became the longtime owner and operator of Southampton Stationery. He remained dedicated to his business and community until his retirement in 2013.

In retirement, Herbert reconnected with the Hampton Bays American Legion Post 924, where he took great pride in attending meetings and participating in ceremonies. In 2016, he was honored by the Hampton Bays School District, in conjunction with the Town of Southampton, with a citizenship award followed by a flag ceremony. Herbert found joy in reading, visiting the beach, and most importantly, spending time with his family.

Herbert is survived by his loving wife, Rosemary; his daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Anthony Valle; his two granddaughters, Lauren (and her husband, James Rogers) and Olivia Valle (and her fiancé, Keithen Shepard); and his cherished great-grandson, James Anthony Rogers.

He will be remembered for his strength, dedication, and deep love for his family, as well as for the life he built through hard work and perseverance.

Memorial donations may be made to East End Hospice and the Hampton Bays American Legion Post 924.