01/02/2026
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Retired Firefighter Maurice Herkel.
Maurice dedicated many years of service to the Coleman community as a firefighter and was one of our most reliable and skilled pump operators. Even in retirement, he remained a cherished part of our family, never missing our annual dinner where he delighted everyone with his stories from years past.
Our deepest condolences go out to the Herkel family. Thank you for sharing Maurice with us—he will be greatly missed.
Maurice E. Herkel, 95, of Coleman, died Thursday January 1, 2026 at North Woods Nursing Center, Farwell. He was born November 6, 1930 in Geneva Township, Midland County the son of the late William & Aileen (Wells) Herkel.
Maurice married Gloria M. Hubble May 12, 1951 in Coleman. She preceded him in death January 15, 2023. He retired from the Dow Chemical Company. Maurice enjoyed woodworking.
Survivors include his daughter Julie Gardner of Florida, Joann Hughes of Farwell, grandchildren Tom & Jenessa Hall, great-grandchildren: Alexa Hall, Raven Hall, Cheyenne Hall, Chianna Becket, Sara Stiles, great-great-grandchildren: Will and Dakota Doss, several nieces and nephews. Maurice was also preceded in death by brothers: Donald, Robert, Rex, Wilbur “Dale”, Duane and sister Barbara Schaar.
Funeral services were private with burial in Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.
