Herlin Nordin

Herlin L. Nordin, 86, of Glendale, AZ, died at home on September 10. Herlin was born July 3, 1922 in Willmar, MN. At the age of ten his family moved to Rutland, ND where he lived until graduating from high school in 1939. Herlin served in the US Navy from 1940 - 1946. He was on board the USS Raleigh at Pearl Harbor when it was attacked on December 7, 1941. Subsequently, he requested submarine duty and survived five tours saving downed pilots off the coast of Japan. On February 17, 1946, Herlin married Helen Gulleson, his high school sweetheart. After 62 years of marriage they were as much in love as they were on their wedding day. Herlin called Helen his B.W. beautiful wife until his last day. His successful career in sales mainly related to agriculture began in Minnesota, and continued on in Arizona after he and Helen moved here in 1971. A born salesman, he was coaxed out of retirement in his 70's to train novice salespeople. His passion for sports began as a boy playing baseball, continued as a father instilling his love of sports in his children, and in later years enjoying rounds of golf with dear friends. Until the day he died, he was cheering on the Arizona Diamondbacks, Cardinals, and ASU Sun Devils. Herlin was an active member of the Pearl Harbor Survivors, and served as the president of the Arizona chapter. His presentations to student groups inspired them to know their country's history. He was also a featured speaker at a Veterans' program in Laughlin, Nevada. His patriotism was always evident as he shared his World War II experiences. In the past few years he proudly served as a volunteer at the Veterans' Clinic in Sun City. Herlin, another one from "The Greatest Generation," has passed on to his eternal reward with his loving Lord. He is survived by his devoted wife, Helen, son Lyle, daughters Jane Peter Jenkins Julie Russell Wood, grandsons Ian and Neil Jenkins sisters Opal Gerald Hegle, Alice Roger Wells, Kathryn Don Stoterau, and Ann Jim Potticary, as well as many niece and nephews. A celebration of Herlin's life will be held at Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church 11025 N. 111th Avenue in Sun City, AZ 85351 on Friday, September 19th at 1:00. A light lunch at the church will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Shepherd of the Desert's Memorial Fund which will be directly forwarded to Lutheran Social Ministries. Menke Funeral & Cremation Center handled arrangements.