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Herman Regusters Obituary

REGUSTERS-#1>Herman Alphanso Regusters, 72, passed away quietly on Monday, December 19, 2005 in the loving arms of his wife, Angie, at their home in H untington Beach, California. Herman was born November 17, 1933, in Philadelphia, PA to Mary E. Kelly-Regusters and James Cromwell Regusters. He was the youngest of 12 children. At the age of 17, he entered military service with the U. S. Air Force, received extensive technical training and served overseas during the Korean War. After Herman?s honorable military service, he continued his education, graduating from LaSalle College in Philadelphia, leading to his career as a consultant and aerospace engineer, with a degree in physics and skilled as a graphoanalyst. Herman consulted for JPL in Pasadena, California; developed a global positioning system that could be mounted on a backpack; was with the Viking spacecraft team from 1978 to 1980, with prior assignments including participation in both Gemini and Apollo projects as a data acquisition systems engineer at Goddard Space Flight Center, and as a design engineer on numerous aerospace projects. He was a senior consultant with the Gimini Development Corporatio n in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Herman loved adventure and welcomed challenges. In 1981, Herman, the explorer, with a NASA designed insignia for his party to wear, lead TRACE-1, The Regusters African Congo Expedition, and braved the wilds of the Congo on a 40-mile, five-day journey through dense, bug filled swamps and jungles to reach Lake Tele, home of Mokele Mbembe, a dinosaur-like creature said to still inhabit the area, resulting in the discovery of numerous biological exceptions, as well as voice recor dings of the creature. He astounded the world by announcing he saw a gigantic dinosaur when his expedition probed the jungles of Africa. His photo and sound recording are the most famous of the various sightings of Mokele Mbembe. In 1991, Herman, the entrepreneur, brought something else back from the Congo. Ngok Beer. With his import/export company, Ngok Imports, based in South Pasadena, he distributed Ngok Beer throughout California and several neighboring states. Herman will be remembered for his wit, gen erosity, adventurous spirit, loyalty and love of life. He loved music, cooking, laughing and just being Herman. He enriched the lives of many and will be missed by all. Preceded in death by his son, Allen Lonnie Regusters; brothers, James, Harry, Howard, Henry, Thomas and Hugh; and sisters, Hallie and Cornelia, he is survived by his devoted wife, Angie Whitney-Regusters; sons Herman Alphanso Regusters, Jr. and Kevin Whitney; daughters, Paula Renee Regusters, Zandra A. Powell and Shonon Whitney; grandchildre n, Kalonji, Ariel, Echoe, Joshua and Leah; brothers, Vincent and Charles Regusters; sister, Virginia Regusters-Adams and many loving nieces and nephews. A private celebration of his life was held in his presence at his home a month prior to his death.

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Published by The Porterville Recorder on Dec. 23, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
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Gerald Pallay

November 10, 2019

It was a great pleasure to have met Herman and Angie some years back. Condolences to the family and friends. I would appreciate reconnecting with any family who would be so inclined. Gerry Pallay

Dave Burns

February 20, 2006

I met Herman a number of years ago when his wife Angie and I began working together in different musical situations. Herman was usually somewhere close by as we went about the business of making a party go. He would quietly show up at the end of the event and help Angie with her things. After a while I would ask Angie where's Herman? He would usually find a place out of the way or in the car or at a coffee shop close to the gig. Never in the way, always supportive and encouraging to Angie and the rest of the band. I don't think I ever saw him without a book in his hands. He was always a gentleman and a pleasure to have around. We'll miss him but be happy we had a chance to know him. Rest easy...

Herman A. Regusters, Jr.

January 23, 2006

Needless to say it has taken me time to gather the strength
To write the last words of passing to my father, friend, and mentor. It took me many years to realize he was the best friend I ever had. To say I miss him is an understatement. I truly enjoyed taking care of my father with my step mother Angie. As it was difficult, it also filled me with a sense of purpose. I finally realized just how out of touch with life I truly was.

To see him look up to me, and call me his giant was a painfully
joyous moment. In as it weighted heavily on my shoulders with responsibility, instantly it became light as a feather with joy and respect. It biffed me into reality and without a bit of confusion about his statement I knew exactly what he expected of me. I new from that moment I had just been given a passage of my own, the passage to manhood.

This was my right of passage. It was hard to except, it took
My father dieing for me to become a better man, father, and son. I did not realize the joy it gave my father (with all his pain and suffering) to show responsibility, commitment, follow through, and unselfish pride in everything I did for him. And how he held on to the very last hour waiting to hear one thing from me.” That I would respect myself, life, and not continuing too go down a road where a path has already been made, but instead make a trail for others to follow”. Thank you Dad for life, thank you for your wisdom, and you have left many people touched by you’re your stature.

And I say to all that read these words not matter how you came to here,
Be either by accident or intent. Time is not on your side and if you have anything you have not done, seen, or forgiven one for “Do it now”, because the emptiness your soul will suffer will forever be with. Remove the barriers of ego, and pride from you life so you can see the world for what it really is, and not just through you own opinions. My father was a great person; and I would do anything to hold him one more time “A Dance with My Father” sort of speak.

I will treasure the time I spent with him for the rest of my life, and
I know his is looking down on me now, and he is not disappointed in what he sees. I share these private moments and words with you all in hopes you too find your way in a world that can be as full or as empty as “you” make it…think about it…then do it! Thank you all for your words, condolences, and well wishes. Anyone that knew my father has undoubtedly been touch in some way that made your life better, even if we did not like the delivery it always hit home. That was his style, painfully to the point, but somehow it always made you a stronger person, and we loved it behind our pride. Finally I want to thank my Uncle Vincent, for the healing you and my father shared as well. I am sure your heart weighs heavy but with joy, to a bitter sweet ending. God bless you all, and remember don’t wait….put the past behind and reach out to those you love, for our time on earth is short and finial.

Yevette Stewart-Hughart

January 6, 2006

My admiration for Herman was vast -- he always had that "Herman twinkle" in his eyes; an intriguing conversation going; a genuine music interest; a wonderful intellect and love of family -- my dear friend Angie in particular. Rest in Peace, Dear Friend.

Tony Regusters

January 4, 2006

My name is Tony Regusters. I am proud to bear that name and proud even more to have lived a life so positively influenced by the love, appreciation, mentorship and guardian spirit of my exceptional and extraordinary uncle, Herman Alphonso Regusters.



Though I was a nephew, he treated me like a son. I especially appreciate him for the suport he gave my mom during her times of trial. He was a good friend and very kind to my mother, Marion Elizabeth (Bettye) Regusters (Vincent's wife),



He was the quintessential "uncle" to me and my six younger brothers and sisters.



I learned a lot from Uncle Herman.



I have many memories of him when I was a child. I loved being around him. He always had a special look in his eye for me that told me I was special; he made me feel like I could do anything...



I remember with great fondness those long-gone days when he and my Dad spent so much time together - and the great days (and party nights) spent with my cousins: Allen, Paula and Herman, Jr. ("Butch").



I have many special memories of me as a child with him and my Aunt Josephine, back in Philadelphia; one in particular...



They took me to the movies with them one Saturday evening. The film was "From Here to Eternity". I remember bawling my eyes out when Montgomery Clift's character "Robert E. Lee Pruitt" got shot and killed trying to make his way back to the army base after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Though I was crying so loud it was distrubing the people siting around us, I remember Uncle Herman was really patient and gentle and explained (I was three going on four) that it was only a movie, and that the people in the story were all just play-acting, playing out make-pretend roles...



That moment was like an epiphany for me - I began to understand the differences betweeen fantasy and reality; it also led to a life-long love of film, theater and broadcast media.



I mention this because I can trace that moment up to my college years as a film major - and through my long and successful career as a news producer in television and radio - to my current professional work as a international media relations and public relations consultant in Washington, DC and globally in Africa...



I considered Uncle Herman a genius and always wanted to be just like him...



When I went through some years of estrangement with my own Dad, it was Uncle Herman who gently, but consistently "insisted" that I make the effort to reconcile - and it is because of him (with loving assistance from their sister, my Aunt Virginia) that my Dad and I are now experiencing a wonderful new communication and father/son relationship...



Uncle Herman, I will miss you and I send love and love's best wishes to Angie - all your children, and all those who have been blessed to know you and come under the bright, bright spiritual light of your being.



I will always love you and never forget you.



You have been a magnificent inspiration and an awesome role-model.



I admit to being kind of selfish about Uncle Herman. Though I have six wonderful siblings (Michael, Marty, Rick, Cheryl, Teresa, Andrea-Claire), as the oldest, I always felt like he was "my" uncle.



He was one of my greatest cheerleaders and was always there with strong, patient, brilliant, loving words of encouragement and advice.



Uncle Herman was a handsome, gentle spirit - a scientist and a bold and adventurous individual; someone to look up to.



What a great, great, gifted man to have in your life!

Mike Frizzell

January 4, 2006

Hearing the news of Herman’s passing deeply saddened me. Though we lost touch with each other during the last 20 years, I fondly recall the conversations and letters we shared about his Congo research in the early 1980s. Herman was an extraordinary gentleman and the quintessential adventurer who, in my view, wrote an inspiring, indelible chapter in the book of scientific inquiry. I will miss him.



My deepest sympathies go to Herman’s family and friends. God bless.

Cheryl Barnes-Cabasso

January 3, 2006

A scientist, a chef, an intellectual, a provocateur, a man who could find humor in many things.....Herman Regusters. It was more than a pleasure to have met Herman. He never backed away from a good, rousing, challenging discussion about just about anything and he continuously showed himself to be a person of courage and curiosity who would seek completion of a goal, no matter what it might have been. He gave such wonderful support to Angie in so many ways, most notably in her musical career, and for that (among other things) I truly admired him. As time goes by, I know I'll have a Herman "mental moment" from time to time and I'll smile, remembering some thing he said or did that left a nice memory in my heart. Rest In Peace Herman. You made a truly remarkable mark in this world.

Vincent Regusters

January 3, 2006

My Dear Brother Herman:

I sat at your bedside looking at you in peaceful and varied modes of sleep and I sensed the music of your soul. Sometimes gentle as a flowing brook, other times bold as great beasts of the exotic Congo. In other moments the music tended to whisper sweet nothings into the ear of your special soul mate. There, too, springs the melodious harmonic mixture of Angelic voices lifting humanity.



The music of your soul is beautiful as a tropical sunset, sweet as the breath of a newborn infant. Other times it seemed to swell or ebb with the flow of your life's vibrations. I sat there listening to the music of your soul. It revealed to me that you lived your life to the fullest extent of your really diversified skills and abilities. Your song was full of dreams unfulfilled, goals unreachable, love unreciprocated, and the glorious soul mate love finally reaching your harmonic scale via your life with Angie. The real beauty in soul music is that you realize you are truly loved by your soul mate . . . just because you are you.



Your soul song has shown me that when one changes the way they look at things, only then can one bring about change. My time with you was a joy. A joy I've sorely missed for so many years. I thank you, sincerely, for permitting me, Vicky, to spend time with you and Angie from December 8, 2005 to December 18, 2005. The beautiful music of your soul shall live always in my hear.

Tom Johnson

January 3, 2006

I have known Herman for moe than 20 years, and although I have considered him to be my best friend, I feel robbed that he and I never got to spend as much time together as we both wanted. Distance does that to you. In the later years, Herman and I didn't telephonically communicate more than 3 or 4 times per year, but every time we talked, it was just like we had spoken yesterday. We never failed to end up laughing, and that is something I will always miss. When Herman and Angie got together, that was one of the very best things that could have happened to both of them. He mentored her like no one else could have, and she supported him like we all would like to be supported. He was a lucky man, and she was a lucky woman. It has been a true pleasure to have known them together.



One of the times that I most treasure was two days we spent with Herman and Angie last summer. I just wish it could have been more.



I knew Herman well, but not nearly as well as I wanted to. He will be greatly missed.

Vincent Regusters

January 2, 2006

There are no words to truly express what my heart feels at this time. I knew you as a child and for a short time as a young man. Too soon we took different pathways. I went east and you went north, south and finally God saw fit to rejoin our paths, hands and souls. In the short period we touched hearts and souls we were able to recap our entire life. Little did either of us realize how soon our "goodbyes" would seperate us once again . The blessing in this parting is that I know we shall meet again in a better time and place. The time I spent with Angie and Herman will always be treasured and I shall always love you both. Your big brother.

Patricia Regusters

December 31, 2005

I will miss Uncle Herman very much. He was there for my husband, Henry, his nephew when Henry was wounded in Viet Nam. The support and love he gave to me and my husband will never be forgotten. He let me know that we were not alone. I am very lucky to have had him as a neighbor and to later become part of the Regusters family.

Darrell Bain

December 30, 2005

I knew Herman only through my brother and through his research notes from his tip to lake Tele in the Congo. I used them to help me write my book, Postwar Dinosaur Blues, and gave him full credit for doing such a good job of documentation. Herman may have been one of the last of the real jungle explorers. I salute him.

Gary Bain

December 29, 2005

Herman was a true friend. I met him over 20 years ago and shared many great and wonderful times with him. Any time I needed a lift for my spirit or a good laugh I gave him a call. One of my greatest disappointments in life is that we were never able to make that trip together for his return to the Congo to prove beyond a doubt the existence of Mokele Mbembe!! Herman will be truly missed. Rest in peace my good friend.

Donna LaTour-Elefante

December 29, 2005

I was fortunate to know and share a deep emotional and spiritual bond with Herman for 40+ years. He had a great impact on my life and in how I experienced a life of unlimited possibilities. He was a devoted friend,spiritual teacher, and mentor who loved unconditionally. Thank you Herman for your 'Being' and for enriching my life.

Shirley Hall

December 29, 2005

My Christian brother, Herman, peace be with you in the Kingdom of our FATHER. Going home is the path we all must travel to be with Him. You my brother have gained that precious right and are now blessed to be in the continuous presence and love of GOD. We all hope to meet you again in His Kingdom. Make room for us.

Bill Bing

December 28, 2005

You know, I didn't know Herman all that well. Yet, I am quite saddened by his passing. I suppose it's not just Herman's passing that I mourn, but the passing of a generation of gentle souls that are all too rare in today's society. I'm pleased to read that he had an impact on so many young people, that they may carry Herman in their hearts, and honor him and his memory by making the world a better place.

Leticia Garcia Greenman

December 28, 2005

It was a true joy slowly connecting with Herman over the years. As we encountered each other at the gigs of our significant others, we would share thoughts of the latest mystery books we had read; reflections on the news we read and thrills over the latest scientific discoveries especially regarding palentology. He inspired my son, Gabriel, with stories of his exploits in Africa and filled us all with wonder with his stories. His quiet presence filled our lives when they intersected and we will miss his spirit. In many ways, he will remain with us. Our thoughts are with Angie and our hearts unite in our love for her and the love she shared with Herman.

ALLEN GATSBY

December 28, 2005

Mr. HERMAN REGUSTER was a person of integrity. He served his Country with pride

during Corean war. May God bless his

soul.

Ed Greenman

December 28, 2005

Herman was always extremely interesting to talk with. He obviously had led a full and fascinating life. I was always impressed with his quiet, yet strong support of Angie in all her endeavors. He seemed to possess an inner peace and selflessness that enabled him to let Angie shine. This was a wonderful and unusual quality. He will most certainly be missed.

Carryl Du Bois

December 27, 2005

I knew Mr. Regusters over the past few years here at USC/Norris as one of our patients. He was always kind and had that award winning smile. From his positive attitude you never knew he was going through anything and that's probably how he wanted it. We will miss his visits here at The Norris and his presence in this world. He was a gentleman worth knowing and I'm glad his path crossed through my life.



Thank you Mr. Regusters.

Jeffrey Miiller

December 27, 2005

I first met Herman when my partner and I went to see his beautiful wife Angie perform. What struck me most about Herman was how humble he was about the amazing accomplishments in his life. I saw in Herman a humble, graceful soul with an adventurous spirit. I am amazed by the breadth of his experiences. I am moved by the gentle and deep affection he showed his wife. He will forever be with me as an inspiration.

Karen Van Dusen

December 26, 2005

Herman is my daughter Katie's Godfather who played with her as a baby. He took her & his daughter Zandra to the beach. These are thoughts from over 30 years of friendship, sharing parenting thoughts, and just the presence of the other. With all his activities such as making CD's of his wife Angie' singing, to importing his own beer NGOK' from the Congo, to watching the Rose Parade floats drive by the South Pasadena apartment getting ready for the parade the next day, we enjoyed being there. And not the least he was a great cook with the best barbaqued ribs ever. He was there for tough times and good times. Scientist, explorer, business man don't even begin to describe this family man who included us in.

Byron Motley

December 26, 2005

I have known Herman for about 10 years through his wife Angie. He was an incredible man with a wonderful sense of humor and sweet and gentle soul. I was always impressed with Hermans quite manner but his strong and determined spirit. He was a wonderful husband to my friend Angie, which I will always honor him for.



To know the awesome gift that he gave the world through his adventurous expeditions and hard work is inspiring. I am richly blessed to have experienced his brilliance and to have been able to call him a friend. I am inspired by his work, his life and his legacy. Rest well my friend!

Terri Adams

December 26, 2005

I remember Uncle Herman as a purpose driven in life. His educational values inspired me to become the women I am today. His zest for adventure to explore unknown territories fasinated me as a young adult.The practical jokes he played on me in my early teen years were very unconventional, but funny.I remember he told me once that there is no shortcut to maturity. It takes years to grow to adulthood.Examine my experiences and extract the lessons I need to learn.I will miss him and always love him.

To Angie (wife) and all of his children:

In this time of loss remember love...Good-Bye can be the saddest word,and often it is not a word we are prepared for.But at a time like this, words that would make a difference are few.

We are always taught that everything has a season and that though the summer must go to make room for autumn and winter, there is always spring.

Somehow these word don"t seem to be enough at a time like this. They are meant for comfort, to console, but often leaves us feeling hollow.

The real comfort comes in knowing that we've care,loved and invested ourslves. The void is something no one can deny or fill or talk away with words; but in grief we feel the magnitude of love.

Though your loss is heavy, realize that your love was a great blessing in the life of one...who heard the call to come home.



Deepest Sympathy

Shonon Whitney

December 25, 2005

Herman, "Doc" was more than a stepfather to me,his guidence and wisdom,was a wonderful blessing, and I will be forever thankful,for the time we spent together.and for our long talks.I will miss you Herman, and I know you are with the Lord our God. Many blessings

g

Jack Crone

December 25, 2005

With great sadness I acknowledge Herman's passing. Herman left us prematurely, but he did more living in his 72 years than most people could in several life times. He was my best friend, co-worker, sometimes roommate (he cooked, I washed the dishes), business partner, and more. He may be gone, but he will always live in my memory.

Sharlisse a.k.a Lisa Rashied (Adams)

December 25, 2005

I will always remeber Uncle Herman as a man that loved life, and lived it to the fullest. He always had a joke in his pocket, and a trick up his sleeve. He will be truly missed by all. Angie my prayers are with you.

Virginia Regusters-Adams

December 24, 2005

I lost a much loved brother the other day, even though he didn't want to go away. With a little smile and a touch of his hand he left to go to a distant land.



Life will be so different without Herman. Even though he lived on the other side of the country, we always kept in tough. I always knew he was there when I needed someone to talk to, he always had time. I could not have asked for a better big brother. May he rest in love and peace in God's care until we meet again. Herman will be with me always and forever in my heart until we meet again in that distant land.

Vicki Powell-Worley

December 23, 2005

My thoughts of Herman's personality will always be reflected in his daughter Zandra-his humor, mannerisms,outlook on life. The adventure does live on...Zandra's mom

Pairia L. Hallie

December 23, 2005

Angie, the family and I are sadden to hear of the passing of Herman.

Herman was a very likable person, always willing to lend a helping hand to those who needed it.I remember when, we all lived in So.Pasadena and Herman would make one of his favorite recipes,and what a good eat we would all have.

Angie our family extend our sincere sympaty to you and family.

Sincerely

Pairia L.Hallie

/ Family

Samuel hallie

December 23, 2005

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.





Ecclesiastes (ch. III, v. 1-8)



may the Lord grant you pease.



Sam, Cyndy and Jessamy Hallie

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