Herman L. Barnum

Mr. Herman Lee Barnum, age 61, our hard-working, proud, dedicated, and loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend passed away suddenly on Saturday, March 15, 2025, doing what he loved the most, working for Barnum’s Auto Parts.

Herman was born on February 24, 1964, in Flint, Michigan, the son of Robert “Bob” & Gloria Barnum (née Haynes). Herman was a lifelong resident of Millington and graduated from Millington High School with the class of 1982. On May 16, 1987, he wed the love-of-his-life, Stephanie Colling. Together they shared countless memories, raised their son, Terry, and celebrated 37 years of marriage.

He proudly operated Barnum’s Auto Salvage alongside his father, and Barnum’s Bug Barn on his own. He was an avid fan of Volkswagen and traveled all over the country for them. Herman loved to race and his racing community, his marquee #22 could be found on his vehicles. Further, he took great pride in hosting his VW Car Show annually for 15 years. Further, Herman served as chairman of Thumb Area Mud Runners – Tuscola County Christmas for Kids, and he also served as a committee member for the local Boy Scouts. Above all, Herman loved his family and the time he spent with them. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

He is forever loved by his wife, Stephanie Barnum; son, Terry Barnum; parents, Bob & Gloria Barnum; brother, Daniel (Katrina) Barnum; father-and-mother-in-law, Mr & Mrs. Dalton “Scout” Colling; sister-in-law, Jennifer (Byron) Leach; brother-in-law & best friend, Big Jim Hess; nieces, Kathleen (Colin) Davis, and Rebecca (Devin) Comfort; nephews, Mark (Kelly) Sutton, and James Hess; great-nieces, Elizabeth Davis and Caroline Davis; great-nephew, Jonathan Davis; as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and beloved racing community.

Herman was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Sue Ann Sutton; grandparents, Orville & Elsie Haynes; grandparents, Harry & Eva Barnum; aunt, Evelyn Metzelburg; and special cousin, Joe.

Herman’s family will receive visitors at Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 21, 2025; a time of sharing will begin at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Otisville at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2025; visiting at church will begin at 10:00 a.m. and last until the time of mass. Fr. Ken Coughlin will preside. The Rite of Committal will follow in Millington Twp. Cemetery. Guests are asked to drive their favorite Volkswagen to the visitation on Friday and services on Saturday.

In keeping with Herman’s giving spirit, toy donations may be directed to Thumb Area Mud Runners – Tuscola County Christmas for Kids; toy donations will be accepted during visitation at the funeral home.

Kindly share a memory with Herman's family in the guestbook below.

Herman and his family are in the care of Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington. 4823 Main St, 48746. Phone (989) 871-4591.

Hanlin Funeral Homes ~ Serving Since 1928

Millington & Vassar