Published by Legacy Remembers on Feb. 17, 2026.
Irving Herm Rosenberg of
Yountville, California, passed away on February 13, 2026, at the age of 82 after a battle with a blood infection. He was born on July 14, 1943, at Franklin Hospital in
San Francisco, California, to Max and Giovanna Rosenberg and was raised in San Francisco.
Irving proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4) during his three years of service. Following his military service, he began his career as a warehouseman. More than 20 years later, he entered his final profession as a cemetery groundskeeper, where he was known for taking pride in maintaining sacred resting places with care, integrity, and respect.
A hardworking man with strong values, Irving was also a formidable athlete in his youth. An accomplished wrestler and football player, he developed a lifelong passion for strength training and fitness. When he was not working, he could often be found at the gym. Over the years, he trained numerous bodybuilders and earned the nickname "The Creator" for his ability to help others develop remarkable physiques-reflecting the discipline and pride he brought to bodybuilding.
Irving was deeply committed to workers' rights, advocating for fair treatment, health care, and retirement security. He was an active participant in union efforts and later served as president of Cemetery Workers and Greens Attendants Local 265, SEIU.
As a father, Irving taught his values by example, emphasizing discipline, integrity, and hard work. He loved spending time outdoors, camping with his family and days at the zoo. He had a special affection for Disneyland, especially the attraction "it's a small world." In his later years, he remained active, enjoying long walks and continuing his commitment to fitness. As a grandfather, he encouraged the value of education and lifelong learning.
Irving loved animals and cared for several throughout his life. While he cherished them all, his dog Bruno was his closest companion.
He is survived by his son, Robert Rosenberg; his stepdaughter, Sheerie; his grandchildren, Max and Mia; his step-granddaughter, Rachel; and his sister, Jennifer. He remained a constant presence in the lives of those he loved, and his family could always count on him calling just to check in. His son was by his side at the time of his passing.
His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the strength he inspired in others, and the example he set through a life of discipline and dedication.
No formal services will be held. Those wishing to honor Irving's memory are encouraged to take a walk or lift some weights-and to make it a habit. Irving Rosenberg