We are heartbroken by the tragic death of our dear friend and colleague Harald Herrmann, who was killed on Wednesday, September 28. He was out for his lunchtime bike ride along the bluffs and was on his way home, only 3 minutes away when a box truck swerved across Highway 1, striking him while he was riding along the shoulder. Harald was a beloved and respected advocate for the health and safety of our coastal community, making the circumstances of his death particularly poignant. We are grieving not only for the loss of a wonderful man, father, husband and friend, but also a significant voice for us all.
Harald was a key part of our leadership team at Midcoast ECO. We forged a tight kinship over the past seven years, beginning with a community meeting in the park, when Harald came forward and asked “how can I help?” From those early days, Harald had dedicated himself to the well-being of the coast, while also managing the demands of a successful global career in project management, management consulting, healthcare, and corporate management, and as an incredibly devoted family man.
Harald had a generosity of spirit, warm wit, intelligence, possessing an incredible ability to synthesize and analyze data. He was an invaluable contributor to our research and education efforts. His contributions are evident in the reports we’ve produced over the years, including disaster preparedness, sewer infrastructure, and traffic studies. He was candid about expressing his views. We will always miss his perspective.
Harald’s connection and collaboration extended beyond Midcoast ECO. He developed working ties with many of the dedicated Coastsiders advocating for road safety, sustainable development, improved infrastructure, and protecting our environment.
Beyond his community advocacy efforts, Harald was a very generous neighbor and friend who never shied away from getting involved when needed. His loss will run deep throughout the hearts in our community.
A Celebration of Life for Harald is tentatively scheduled for the end of November. We will share more details as they become available, as well as ways you can support Harald’s family and honor his memory.
Comments