Herman "Herm" Allen Veld

Herman Allen Veld went to be with his Lord and Savior at the age of 74 on July 18, 2024.

Herman was born on October 1, 1949 to the late Harm and Gertrude (Allen) Veld in Kalamazoo, Michigan. From a young age, Herm exhibited a remarkable ability to fix anything, a skill that would become a hallmark of his character. After graduating from Gull Lake High School, Herm embarked on a distinguished career in law enforcement, serving with the Battle Creek Police Department with dedication and honor for 25 years from 1971-1996. He began as a patrol officer and was awarded a meritorious service award, professional excellence award and several citations during his career. He was promoted to sergeant in 1994 and was a field supervisor. He also was a member of the Emergency Response Team.

Soon after retirement, Herm worked at the Battle Creek Federal Center as a security guard. Herm then continued to serve his community with the Federal Protective Service through the Department of Homeland Security, beginning in 2002 until his second retirement in 2017. His unwavering commitment to justice and protection earned him the admiration of his peers and the gratitude of those he served.

Beyond his professional life, Herm was a devoted husband to Linda Veld. The two were united in marriage on June 13, 1969 in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Herm met Linda when his sister, Shirley, moved next door to Linda’s parents. Herm and Linda just celebrated 55 years of marriage.

Family was the cornerstone of Herm’s life, and he found his greatest joy in helping his loved ones. He was a loving father to Jennifer Veld and Jamie Veld. His grandchildren Ashley and Jacob Smith and Robby Gwilt held a special place in his heart, and they affectionately knew him as “Papa”.

In his leisure time, Herm enjoyed flying his 1966 Cessna 150F and attending car shows in his vintage 1966 Mustang GT Fastback. Herm’s faith in God was central to his life, providing him with strength and comfort. He was an active member of Faith Baptist Church in Battle Creek and with their Men’s ministry and helping in maintenance. He found fellowship and spiritual fulfillment at the church.

Herm is survived by his loving wife Linda Veld and daughters Jennifer Veld of Battle Creek, Michigan and Jamie Veld of Marshall, Michigan; grandchildren Ashley (Jacob) Smith and Robby Gwilt; sisters Shirley (Charles) Stanford of Thornton, Colorado, Patricia Wagenaar of Kalamazoo, Michigan and Marilyn (George) Luedke of Surprise, Arizona; sister-in-law Nancy (Doug) Phillips of Parchment, Michigan, brother-in-law Jeff (Marlene) Clark of Ramona, California, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harm and Gertrude Veld, mother-in-law and father-in-law, John and Jennie Clark, brother-in-law and sister-in-law John and Lory Clark.

Herm leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and service. His kindness, wisdom and unwavering faith touched the lives of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and community.

Visitation will take place on Friday, July 26, 2024 from 10:00 – 11:00 am at Faith Baptist Church in Battle Creek with the funeral service to follow at 11:00 am with Pastor Roy Henry officiating. Burial will take place at Battle Creek Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Faith Baptist Church or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services 2838 Capital Ave. SW Battle Creek, Michigan 49015. Please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.