Former Orland Township Trustee Remembered for Dedication to Community

Joan Herman, a former Orland Township trustee and Township activist, died Saturday, Nov. 15 at the age of 81.

Herman was an extremely devoted individual who lived the life she sought to inspire in others. This life was one of service and dedication- service to our community and dedication to every individual within it, especially our youth.

Herman served our community as an Orland Township trustee for 31 years from 1973 to when she retired in 2001. She returned to fill an unexpired term from 2006 to 2009. During her time at Orland Township she participated in Youth Commission meetings and events, such as the Youth Commission Race and “Haunted Woods” program. She strived to teach young people the importance of giving back to their community through community service, and with her diverse volunteer portfolio she was an exemplary model for our youth to look up to. Whether it was helping at a health fair or immunization clinic, contributing her efforts to one of the Food Pantry’s annual assistance programs, volunteering her time at a senior event or serving as an Orland Township Scholarship Foundation committee member, Herman was always present with unwavering enthusiasm and a caring smile. Herman’s genuine concern for others showed in everything she did- all of her actions were heartfelt and with a purpose, that purpose being the betterment of our neighbors and community as a whole.

“Former Trustee Herman will always be held in high regard by the Administration and staff of Orland Township. She will never be forgotten,” said Supervisor Paul O’Grady. “We will miss her selfless spirit, and only hope that others can follow in her inspirational footsteps.”

Herman’s kindness overflowed into all aspects of her life. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who never missed an opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren. She leaves behind a legacy of commitment and compassion, and will remain an inspiring figure to all of us for years to come.