David L. Herbst

1937 - 2024

David L. Herbst, known for his boundless love of nature, his lively spirit, and his dedication to family, has embarked on his next adventure.

Born March 31, 1937, Dad passed on Oct. 24, 2024. In the spirit of his lifelong passion, we imagine him now in hip waders, shotgun in hand, trekking through a marsh alongside his faithful dog, Pete.

He leaves behind his cherished wife, JoAnn Herbst, and his children, Eric, Christie, Kevin and wife, Diana. He was the proud grandfather of Bill Grimes, Victor Grimes, Chas Rathburn, Tyler Herbst, Obie Rathburn, Jake Herbst, Erin Herbst, Gabe Herbst, and Keyan Herbst, and he was a proud great-grandfather of Lincoln, Isaiah and Isabell. He was privileged to be the uncle of ten nieces and nephews.

Dad now reunites with his parents, Obie and Dave; his beloved son, Vince; his sisters, Judy and MaryBeth; sister-in-law, Marita, and his brothers-in-law, Dave, Jack and David.

Dad's life was a testament to curiosity and reverence for the natural world. A dedicated wildlife biologist, he spent his career teaching others about the intricate beauty of the outdoors, passing down his knowledge of every species of tree, flower, and animal he encountered. Dad was also an avid sportsman – whether hunting, fishing, golfing, or playing on fields, courts and tracks. He could often be found cheering for Purdue with the same fervor he brought to his adventures. Dad graduated from Purdue with his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees.

Dad spent most of his career with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, beginning in the Division of Fish and Wildlife. He was also the director of State Parks, director of soil conservation and deputy director in the executive office. Dad left the DNR, briefly, and was the Great Lakes Regional Executive for the National Wildlife Federation. He worked diligently in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois and Kentucky on various environmental issues. Dad was honored to become a Kentucky Colonel in 1980 and was honored with the Sagamore of the Wabash award in 1996, and was an honored member of The Wildlife Society as a certified wildlife biologist.

Dad enlisted in the USNR at seventeen. He served on the USS Worchester and was honorably discharged in 1962 as a communication technician, Petty Officer 2nd class.

One of his most infamous escapades was his co-conspiratorship, alongside his friend Bill Schuckel and the Mattingly twins, in the "Allen County Pete the Python" incidents, a series of shenanigans that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. Dad's zest for life inspired all who were fortunate enough to share in his humor, wit, and love of a good adventure.

Dad will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for the legacy he leaves behind in nature, family and memory.

A memorial service will be in May 2025, with details to be provided at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Dad's name to:

Healthy Rivers INitiative, 402 W. Washington St., W273, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or Indiana Natural Resources Foundation, 402 West Washington St., W256, Indianapolis, IN 46204.