Herb Roedel

1939 - 2022

Herb Roedel
March 30, 1939 - July 25, 2022
Herbert Thomas Roedel passed away peacefully in his sleep on the evening of Monday, July 25, 2022. Born on March 30, 1939 in Appleton, Wisconsin, Herb lived to be 83 years old, living a very full life and accomplishing more than most people are capable of dreaming.
Herb grew up in a humble Wisconsin family, but his natural athletic ability gave him the ability to attend Marquette on a full football scholarship, where he studied Mechanical Engineering and graduated in 1961. Herb went on to play in the NFL for the Oakland Raiders in 1961. His time with the Raiders became his introduction to the SF Bay Area that became his long term home.
He later became a 'grinder' racing sailboats out of St Francis Yacht Club in San Francisco, even winning the arm wrestling championship at the club. Later as an avid road cyclist in Marin he met his future wife, Jessica Wimer.
Herb and Jessica spent time together riding bicycles and drinking wine around California along with many other outdoor adventures. They were married on May 28th, 1983.
They soon settled in San Rafael to raise their family. They were blessed with twin boys, Alex and Derek Roedel. As a family, they continued on Herb's adventure legacy and enjoyed time camping and fly fishing all over their home state. Herb's family was everything to him, he started a business and named it "Derex Company" combining both of his son's names as a constant reminder of his biggest pride and joy.
Herb was one of the lucky ones. He got to live his life in Northern California, a place he had dreamed of as a kid, and a state that fully embraced him and allowed him to thrive. He raised an incredible family, resulting in quite a legacy, and was fortunate enough to get to attend his first grandchild's first birthday. He is survived by his wife, Jessica Wimer, and his two sons, Alex and Derek Roedel and their wives, and his 1 year old grandson Cade. In addition, his siblings Mary Beth Rechner, David Roedel, and John Roedel.
Herb will be dearly missed by all those that knew him. Until his last day, he remained the most kind and considerate person, who always chose to approach life with a positive and optimistic attitude. His family will carry on this legacy, and especially his love and appreciation for Jessica's incredible cooking.
In lieu of flowers and cards, the family asks all those that knew and loved him to donate to the Michael J Fox Parkinsons Foundation.
We love and miss you Herb.