James "Jim" Herrman

 James "Jim" Albert Herrman, 81, of Manito, IL, passed away at 12:15 a.m. on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Lincoln, IL. 

 He was born January 15, 1944, in Peoria, IL, to Robert Herrman and May Ellen Savage, he married Marlene Peplow at the Manito Methodist Church on June 14, 1975, and they shared 50 beautiful years together. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Steve Herrman, brothers-in-law Allen Freed and Jerry Peplow, and niece Mary Beth Peplow. 

 Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Marlene; his son, Carson (Brooke) Herrman of Manito; his daughter, Angela Crum of Manito; his grandchildren, Kayleigh and Kallie; his sister, Janet Freed of Green Valley; brother-in-law, Danny (Bonnie) Peplow; sister-in-law, Becky Peplow; Nieces, Erin (Wyatt) Meyer, and Patti (Jason) Massaglia; and Nephews, Cary (Carrie Ann) Peplow and Jimmy Freed. 

 Jim lived a rich and vibrant life marked by service, craftsmanship, and a deep love for his family and community. Jim dedicated 39 years of his career as a blacksmith and mechanic at Corn Products, starting in 1963 and retiring in 2002. A proud veteran of the United States Air Guard serving in the 182nd combat support group out of Bartonville, IL.  Jim cherished the opportunity to participate in the Greater Peoria Honor Flight, an experience that deeply moved him. Jim’s passions were many and varied. He brought joy to countless children as Santa Claus and shared his skills in his home blacksmith shop, where he also crafted leather work and rings. A history enthusiast, he was particularly fascinated by the history of Spring Lake Bottoms and Camp Ellis Military Training Facility in Ipava, which also held German POW's during WWII and  collected many artifacts over the years. Jim was a member of the 15th Tennessee Infantry Regiment COG, participating in Civil War reenactments, including the Battle of Gettysburg, and enjoyed muzzle loading. Together with his father and brother, He owned and operated Gobbler's Nob Trap Range in Manito in the mid 60's to early 70's and was an outstanding shot himself. He also served his community as a Spring Lake Township Trustee and was a member of the Masonic Lodge Empire 126. Jim also maintained the family farm and collected antique tractors, hit and miss engines and trench art from WWI and WWII. Jim loved his family and treasured his granddaughters. He will be greatly missed. 

 Cremation has been accorded, and a private family gathering will be held at a later date. 

 In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Greater Peoria Honor Flight. 

 Jim’s legacy of kindness, craftsmanship, and community service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.