Herbert Romaine Dieterich Jr. died peacefully at home on March 31, 2019 at the age of 93. He was born in Moberly, Missouri May 3, 1925 to parents, H.R. and Twila. He grew up in Maryville, graduating from high school in 1943 and served in World War II in the Army from 1943-46. After the war, he attended the University of Kansas, graduating in 1951 with a BA in Political Science and an MA in Public Administration. He moved to Albuquerque where he worked for the Sandia Corporation. Attending graduate school at the University of New Mexico, he earned a PhD in American Civilization and U.S. History in 1954, when he married Mary Frances (“Ricky”) Christensen. After one year at Adams State College in Alamosa, Colorado, where their son was born, they moved to Laramie in 1958. He worked for UW in the History Department until his retirement in 1995, serving students, his fellow faculty members and the university with distinction.
He is survived by his wife, of 45 years, Sally; two daughters, Ann (Christensen) Williams of Denver and Jean Christensen and granddaughter, Masha Harmon, both of Arlington, Virginia; and his sister, Shirley Rowley, also of Denver; as well as his two nieces and their children.
He was preceded in death by his brother and his son, both named Jack.
Cremation has taken place and at his request, there will be no services.
Donations in his name will be gratefully accepted to the Albany County Public Library, the Laramie Animal Shelter, or the Downtown Clinic.
Dear Sally, Kay and I are shocked by Herb's passing. Granted, he had a long good life, but with his passing there went the History Department colleague for whom I had the most admiration and respect. I will always remember his decency and kindness. He was the best guide to the ins and outs of academia I ever encountered. He will be missed. Eric Kohler
I know this is a tough time for you Sally. I wish you strength for today, and happier times ahead. Don Boyd
Sally and family, Herb had a life with honor, integrity, honesty, and the capability of making friends wherever he lived. We had several great conversations in the Therapy Department at IMH. My hope is that you find peace and happiness in the time you had him in your lives. I wish each of you the very best in your life.
So sorry to hear of Herbs passing ! Not sure anyone is left in the poker group but me ! Joe Geraud And Bette
I will always treasure all those days of getting caught up in conversation at the mail boxes in the history department. So many stories and advice. Just a blessing of a man. His family has my love and prayers.
Sally and Family, We are so very sorry to hear of Herb’s passing. He had an incredible impact on students as well as myself. After retiring, I missed our routine coffee talks. I learned so much from him and some of those things have been life-changing. We will miss him and please know we are here for you. Our condolences for a life well lived. Doug & Karen
Sally, Ann and Jean, I was very sad to learn of Herb's passing. It is the women in Herb's life I knew best, Sally, Ann, Jean and Ricki, all having a piece in the puzzle of my life. Ann and Jean I think of you often, wondering where in the world you are. Sally the grocery store, park or farmer's market is how we stay in touch. I am sorry for your loss. Terri Hull Jones
Dear Sally & family, Herb was one of my favorite professors and people! While attending UW and working in the History Dept. I found Herb a delight to talk to, to laugh with, to hear his stories, and to learn from. Both of you were so gracious to allow me into your home, as I am a long time Laramie history buff, especially our historical homes! I am sad for you all as I am sure Herb's loss is tremendous for you all, yet I am happy Herb lived a full life with the love of his life by his side...and that he is reunited with Jack once again. Much love and prayers, Tina Walrath & family
Dear Sally, and family ~ Library booksales were always more fun with the two of you there. Such great memories - and easily recalled. You're both wonderful people, and we miss each of you... and send our condolences. Fondly ~ Margo and Bill Bennett
Dear Sally and Herb's family, We are so very sorry to learn of Herb's death. He was the pinnacle of that to which every human being should strive in kindness and decency. The absolute gold standard. It was a privilege and honor to have known him. You were truly the light of his life. Steve and Sandy Adams