Mabel Herlich

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, aunt, cousin and friend Mabel Herlich, on August 20th, 2025, at the young age of 101. She passed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones.

Born on April 19th, 1924, in Flushing, NY, Mabel was the daughter of Theodore and Mabel Hertling. She married Richard Herlich in 1944, and together they raised two children in Bellerose, Queens. As a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great grandmother, Mabel (more lovingly known as Mae) was the foundation and matriarch of our family, providing love, wisdom, and comfort to all who knew her.

Mabel loved to travel and did as much of it as possible throughout the course of her life. She relished in sharing her experiences, and always brought home trinkets and photos to share. Mabel also loved Manhattan and spending time with her family. Mabel was a devoted member of St. Gregory the Great Parish in Bellerose and had strong roots in her Catholic faith. Mabel loved to volunteer in her community. She fundraised for many organizations including Nassau AHRC, sang Christmas Carols at a local Psychiatric Hospital and drove community members to doctors appointments in her community for FISH until age 90. She loved theater, which she has passed down to all. Her home was always open and welcoming to family and friends, and she will be remembered for her hospitality, warmth, and her unwavering faith.

Mabel was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Herlich, and her son Richard Herlich. She is survived by her daughter Kathy Herlich Kelsch, her son in law Peter Kelsch and her daughter in law Betty Herlich, grandchildren, Debra McDonough, Maria Hinz, Jennifer Kelsch, Douglas Kelsch, great grandchildren Matthew O’Brien, Nicholas McDonough, Emily Hinz, Allison Hinz, Gabrielle Kelsch, Timothy Kelsch, Jillian Kelsch, Katelyn Kelsch and great great grandchildren Julian and Benjamin O’Brien and Colton Schlesier.

We will miss you dearly, Mabel, but we are comforted knowing that your love and legacy will live on in all of us. We love you!