Herman Fishman, a resident of Mercer Island, died peacefully in his sleep on Oct. 6, 2008. He was 84. Mr. Fishman was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and was a World War II veteran. He retired from the New York State Department of Labor after more than 30 years of service. He was proud of his New York roots and found great pleasure in spending his last years on Mercer Island.

Mr. Fishman left an imprint on the lives of many people. He generously shared his kind spirit, stories and humor. He always had a smile on his face, and his friends were people of all ages. His grandchildren were the joy of his life.

Although Mr. Fishman was a quiet, soft-spoken man, he always rose to a leadership role, whether at work or volunteer organizations.

Mr. Fishman was preceded in death by his wife, Louise, and daughter, Barbara. He is survived by his daughter, Etta Short; son-in-law, Steven Short; son, Paul Fishman; daughter-in-law, Joan Fanning; and grandchildren, Annie, Shelly, Ben, Isaac and Madeline.

Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 26.