John Eugene Hermann

On February 25th, 2026, at the age of 43, God welcomed John Eugene Hermann into His eternal kingdom, where he is now held in perfect peace. John was a beloved son, brother, twin, uncle, teammate, and friend whose life touched countless people.

John was born on October 9, 1982, in Des Moines, Iowa alongside his twin sister, with whom he shared a deep and lifelong bond. During his early years attending Waukee Elementary and Middle School, they spent countless hours outdoors, exploring, adventuring, and forming friendships that became deeply meaningful and lifelong. These experiences shaped his enduring love of nature and the strong connections he carried throughout his life. From an early age, he showed a natural athleticism and a spirited personality that drew people to him.

John will be remembered most for his enormous heart. He was deeply compassionate, loyal, and humble, always willing to help someone in need and always placing others before himself. He had a rare authenticity; people felt comfortable around him because he was real, kind, and sincere. His laughter could light up a room, and his quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He attended Dowling Catholic High School, where he was part of the historic 2000 football team that earned the school's first state championship title. His senior year, he was the only player from Dowling selected to play in the 2001 Shrine Bowl, an honor that reflected not only his extraordinary talent but the respect he earned from coaches and competitors alike.

John continued his football career at the University of Northern Iowa, where he became a first-team All-American defensive end and went on to hold the school's sack record and was the captain of the 2005 National Runner Up UNI football team. He approached the game with discipline, toughness, and heart, but what meant the most to him were the bonds he formed with his teammates and coaches. He loved being part of that brotherhood. John brought humor, energy, and personality to everything he did.

Outside of football, John was most at peace outdoors. He loved fishing, spending time in nature, and sharing those experiences with the people he loved. Some of his most treasured memories were the trips he took to Canada with his father and brother, Rob. They spent days spent on the water, casting lines from the boat, and competing to see who could catch the biggest fish. Those trips were filled with laughter, tradition, and a deep sense of connection that remained close to his heart.

John had a natural gift for working with his hands. He took great pride in building, fixing, and figuring out how things fit together. In his career in the granite industry, he found satisfaction not only in the physical work but in the process-thinking through designs, solving problems, and creating something lasting and solid. He enjoyed the challenge of making ideas come to life and ensuring every detail was done right. At home, he was the one who fixed what was broken and took care of the projects that needed attention. Providing in that steady, practical way was important to him, and it reflected his quiet dedication to the people he loved.

John adored his nieces and nephews-Jack, Sienna, Maria, Kate, Ben, and Clara, and found great joy in spending time with them. He especially loved taking them fishing, sharing his patience and appreciation for the outdoors, and passing on the same sense of wonder he had cherished since childhood. He proudly gave his nephew Ben his first tackle box and fishing line, creating memories that will live on for generations.

He also cherished time spent with family during the holidays, where traditions, laughter, and spirited games of pitch with grandparents, siblings, and loved ones brought him immense joy. John's presence filled those rooms; his sharp wit, quick humor, and genuine spirit had a way of bringing people together and making every gathering unforgettable.

He is survived by his loving parents, Robin and Peggy Hermann; his brother, Rob Hermann; his sister, Kathleen (David) Kroll; and his twin sister, Chrissy (Joe) DeAngelis. He is also survived by his six beloved nieces and nephews-Jack, Sienna, Maria, Kate, Ben, and Clara-along with many extended family members, teammates, and dear friends who will carry his memory forward.

John's life was defined not by titles or achievements, but by the love he gave, the laughter he shared, and the quiet, genuine way he made people feel valued. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Bonnie and Virgil Porter and Helen and Bob Hermann whose love helped shape his life.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at 1:00p.m. at Iles Jordan Creek Chapel (7150 Ashworth Rd. West Des Moines, Iowa 50266). A visitation will follow from 2:00-4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church or The Powell Rehab Center.