1920
Herman
2024
Herman C Mathews
July 23, 1920 — December 5, 2024
Hank will be laid to rest beside Irene at Roosevelt Memorial Cemetery in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA.
Born to Russian immigrants on July 23rd, 1920, Hank grew up in Philadelphia during the Great Depression. His childhood was shaped by his parents’ hard work, wisdom, and compassion. Hank’s father, Morris, worked as a huckster, selling meat, fish, and produce from a horse-drawn wagon through neighborhoods in the city. Hank spent much of his youth helping his father, learning to clean fish, and identifying the freshest produce. He often entertained customers with his catchy rhymes, such as, “Yes, ma’am, get your pan! Here’s your fresh fish man.”
His mother, Rebecca, was a storyteller who filled Hank’s imagination with tales of her life in Russia. Some of Hank’s many sayings, which he carried throughout his life, came from his mother’s wisdom, including one he often recalled she would say after a funeral: “Well, we’re only here for a visit.” Despite not being able to read or write, Hank always said that Rebecca was one of the wisest people he ever knew.
Hank’s parents also taught him to value compassion over prejudice, often opening their door to those in need. From inviting a poor Irish immigrant and an African American World War I veteran to stay at their home rent free to handing out buttered bread to anyone who was hungry, Morris and Rebecca’s acts of kindness and equality left a profound mark on their son. Hank often shared how his parents’ example taught him to reject the prejudices of the time, treating everyone with kindness and respect.
Hank was known for his warm heart, infectious sense of humor, and a strong sense of loyalty to his loved ones. He had a natural ability to make friends wherever he went, often giving them playful nicknames and leaving an indelible mark on their lives. But it was his love for Irene that defined his story.
Hank met Irene Love, the woman who would become his lifelong partner when they were kids. The two fell in love and eloped to Hankton, MD, when Hank was only 18 and Irene was just 16. Shortly after, Hank enlisted in the Navy and served during World War II, seeing action in the Pacific theater. When he returned home to Irene, the couple’s love only deepened, and they were inseparable for the rest of their lives. Hank would often say he was a “prisoner of love… Irene Love.”
Hank and Irene built a loving family, raising three children—Larry (1941), Alan (1943), and Sandi (1951). Their marriage was a true partnership, with Irene being a talented homemaker and cook, and Hank the breadwinner and an ever-present source of joy and laughter. While Hank had a knack for making friends, it was Irene’s fierce protection of her family that made her unforgettable. Hank would tell the story of how Irene once defended him from a man on the streets of Philadelphia by using a lawn chair as a weapon. “You didn’t mess with Irene,” he’d always say with a chuckle.
The family moved to South Beach, FL, where Hank worked as a cab driver, and Irene worked at Burdines Department Store. Later in life, Hank and Irene returned to Philadelphia but eventually moved back to Florida as health challenges arose. Hank cared for Irene through her long battle with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, remaining steadfast at her side until her passing in 2011.
After Irene’s death, Hank remained in West Palm Beach, supported by his family, including his son Alan, his niece Vicki, and his brother Martin. However, the loss of Alan and Martin in 2017 was a blow to Hank, yet he continued to live life to the fullest.
In 2023, Hank moved to Omaha, Nebraska, to be closer to his daughter Sandi’s children after her passing. He settled in an independent living community in Papillion called The Wellington, where he quickly made new friends. Hank’s zest for life was unmatched, even at 104. He was known for his sharp wit, his love of gathering friends and family, and his ability to charm anyone he met. He would often entertain those around him with stories from his childhood, his many adventures, and the songs he composed himself and loved to sing. No matter where he went, Hank made it a point to chat with strangers, introduce them to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and share his endless supply of jokes and funny songs.
Even in his later years, Hank was as active as ever, and it wasn’t unusual for people to be amazed by his energy. When asked about his age, Hank would quip, “I think I’m becoming elderly,” or “I’m not really old… I’m ancient!” He was a reminder to all that a life well lived can be full of joy, humor, and love.
Hank’s legacy lives on in the stories he told, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave to his family and friends. While he is deeply missed, his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Herman “Hank” Mathews leaves behind a world made brighter by his kindness, laughter, and unwavering love for those he held dear. May he rest in peace beside Irene, his partner for life.
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