Herbert H. Hertner

Herbert H. Hertner, 86, passed away on February 28, 2024, leaving behind a legacy defined by love, service, and boundless positivity. A resident of Biltmore Lake, formerly of Miami and Fort Lauderdale, FL, Herb was born on September 26, 1937, in Philadelphia, PA, to Hugo and Katerina Hertner. His journey was marked by remarkable achievements and an unwavering love for life.

A 1959 graduate of Penn State University (PSU) with a degree in Industrial Engineering, Herb maintained lifelong friendships from his time with Alpha Sigma Phi. He excelled in the Advanced Army ROTC program, earning selection for flight school and subsequently serving as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam starting in 1962.

Herb’s commitment to service was unwavering, as evidenced by his 31-year tenure as an active member of the U.S. Army Reserves, retiring with the rank of Colonel. Transitioning to civilian life, he founded H. Hertner and Associates, Inc., an executive search firm with offices in Miami, Chicago, and Philadelphia. Specializing in legal search, he later founded Hertner, Block and Associates, Inc. with David J. Block in Miami, FL, recruiting accomplished attorneys for prestigious law firms and corporations. Additionally, Herb ventured into investments and retirement planning with his firm Southeast Financial Resources, Inc. Additionally he created The Legal Group, Inc. a placement firm of temporary attorneys and support staff.

Herb found love and partnership with Pam, his beloved wife of over 40 years who joined his firm as a business associate recruiter in 1993. Together, they formed a team, enriching each other’s lives with love, companionship, and professional collaboration.

Herb and Pam retired and relocated to Biltmore Lake, NC, in the summer of 2013 where Herb immersed himself in community activities with enthusiasm utilizing his business talents.

Herb pursued a myriad of interests, from road and mountain biking, golfing, tennis, boating, water and snow skiing. He embodied the ideal of nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. His remarkable ability to see the good in every situation extended to every day of his life. He was admired and respected as a mentor to nieces, nephews and godchildren.

His wife, Pam would like to personally extend sincere appreciation for the kindness, professionalism and care given to Herb while under the hospice care of CarePartners. Sincere special thanks you to Hospice nurses, Melissa, Meghan and Phoebe.

A memorial service honoring Herb will be held at Groce Funeral Home, 1401 Patton Ave., Asheville at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 16. A livestream of the service will be broadcast at service time.

In lieu of flowers, it is kindly requested that donations be made to ABCCM’s Transformation Village or Veterans Restoration Quarters (VRQ) at 20 20th Street, Asheville, NC 28806. Please indicate “Herbert Hertner Memorial” on your contribution.