Obituary of Herbert F. Speer, Jr.

Herbert Franklin Speer Jr., 88, passed away on April 7, 2024. He resided in Berlin, CT. He was born on April 17, 1935 in Orange, New Jersey. He lived there until he came to work at Klingberg Children’s Home, New Britain when he was 19. He fell in love with Janice Thoren. He entered the army and upon return they married, 63 years to date. Herb had a full and vibrant life from beginning to end and touched the lives of many people along the way. The joy of his life has been his family. He leaves behind 4 children: Dawn, Scott, Heather and Drew. He accepted their spouses as his own children, Joseph, Dawn Marie and Renee. He adored his 7 grandchildren Sal, Jessica, Danielle, Caitlyn, Matthew, Christian and Kylie and His 4 great grandchildren Charlotte, Dominic, Maverick and Esmae. He also loved Nicole, Jon and Erin as his own grandchildren. He leaves behind his dearly loved sister and brother-in-law, Elaine and Marty Olsen and their sons Todd and Brad and their families. His extended family includes Wellspring Church, which he was a Pastor, Elder and member over a span of 60 years. Besides being very active in his church, an avid UCONN girls basketball fan, he enjoyed making waffle and egg breakfasts for friends and family. He loved to give to people in many ways all across the globe including a special family in India. However, the best thing Herb gave was his giant bear hugs in which he was famous for. He will be dearly missed by many people.

A celebration of Herb's life will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at 12:00 noon at Wellspring Church, 222 Lincoln Street, Kensington. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 11:00 am until the time of the service at the church. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made by check to Wellspring Church, c/o Herb Speer Memorial. Or give online at Wellspring.net. All donations will be given to New Life Christian College in Chennai, India. For online condolences, please visit www.mulryanfh.com.