 Blossom, Joan, and Shirley
Dearie and Joan
Pictures courtesy of Shirley |
Dear Don, It is hard for me to realize that my youngest cousin is about to be 70. My son Jay was 60 in February, Barry 56, and Susie 53. I will be 83 in September and I cannot imagine where all these years went. Seems like yesterday that the three Kohlreiter sisters were singing and dancing and entertaining the family. In the meantime, Happy Birthday to the sweetest guy in the world. I love Don and he knows it. Had you read the "Whitney story" that I wrote and sent to both Don and to Suesue ? Parts of it contained info about how the Herzogs, without a question ,guided my 64 year career of modelling. I not only loved all of them, especially 'Tanta Dearie Ruth', but have been indebted to the Herzogs for a hope the the future when I desperately needed it. You all are quite an amazing group, talented, beautiful and handsome and very 'PRODUCTIVE'. I am proud to call all of you, "My family". |
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Dear Uncle Donnie, or should I call you Dad, Just thought I'd share some memories with you for your big 70th birthday.
I hope your birthday is wonderful and you are surrounded with love. Love always, |
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Happy 70th Birthday!!!!! As I sit here thinking of you, of course what comes to mind is Grandma Go-Go's and Poppy's pool. You taught me how to dive. I think you taught all of us to dive. You were patient and attentive (and golden tan!). I remember going to parades with you, Aunt Sue, my cousins, parents, and siblings- and I remember you seemed always to be taking/filming movies of us. I also remember a big black dog, maybe at the farm? I'm not so sure about this, perhaps you can clarify it for me... But, what I remember most when thinking about you, no matter the season, is always being greeted by your bright, broad, beautiful smile and feeling welcomed by and comfortable with you. As I sit here envisioning your smiling face, I am smiling and hope you too are smiling and are surrounded by those you love and who love you. I hope you have a wonderful birthday celebration! Know that we are thinking of you with love and many warm thoughts... ~Liz, Scott, Rachel, Robert, and Hannah. |
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Dear Uncle Donnie, "Uncle Donnie" I have to Smile when I write the words wondering if it takes you back to another time as it does for me when someone calls me "jenny". When I hear Jenny I'm 7 years old again playing in the backyard at Grandma's and eating Dunkin Donuts; I am cousin #9 and so filled up inside just to be a part of this big entity known as our family. For me, it was incredible. I was touched and delighted to be included in some way in your very monumental birthday. Amazingly, my memories of you back then are very similar to those written by my sister Heidi. We spoke the other night and she shared her letter to you with me. With the exception of the her often joked about and questionable lineage, our memories were identical right down to the diving lessons at Goldie's and AL's. Happily for me there are some additional memories. I think your glass money jar in your bedroom was the first I'd ever seen. (my dad kept his change in an old cigar box.) My memory was that it was GIGANTIC and I thought , so cool. Another memory was having Thanksgiving at your house and sitting at, what seemed to me at the time, to be the longest dinning room table in the world. You had to sit on an inflatable innertube because of a recent surgery. I remember feeling bad for you . I remember wanting to know what happened to you. I remember feeling I dare not ask! (Now there's something else I can address in therapy!) At this same dinner Aunt Sue served a dessert, (Italian one I think) which was presented in a foil tin. It was a mountain of ball-shaped dough and cherries covered in some kind of glaze. To this day I do not know the name of that dessert. I do remember being told it was your favorite. I also had my first ice cream soda with you.(howard Johnson's on Rte 46? It was just me with you and Sue!) Regrettably, there aren't more childhood memories. It was devastating when you moved away to California. Although my own migration to the West Coast was precipitated by my own struggles, I was grateful (and fortunate) to have had the opportunity to be reacquainted with you. I remember sharing Thanksgiving and Christmas(fancy clothes only!) at your house in Laguna Niguel). I remember you picking me up when I was discharged form the hospital in San Pedro. I remember your habit of raising your wrist repeatedly from the steering wheel to check your speed on the speedometer. It's very strange to me how little I actually know you. As I child, I perceived you as being very composed, quiet, private. With all us bossy women I guess the men of the family didn't have a prayer. But as each individual piece is critical to making a puzzle so too was your presence extremely significant. I feel deeply connected to you as a fellow "piece" to the (to continue the metaphor) big puzzle which is my family, our family. I want to thank for teaching me how to dive. (I'm pretty good I think!) I want to thank for being there for me when I was alone in California. I hope your birthday is a special day. I hope you are with the people you love, and who love you in return. In fact, I hope all your days are like that. Happy 70th Birthday you gorgeous hunk of man! Enjoy With My Love, |
 All of us at Syracuse
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I remember the first time that I saw your father. Herbert and I were dating. We were in the back seat of someones car. Your father got in next to me and I nearly fainted.He was so handsome , his sweet smile and big blue eyes and the way he said hello.Then your mother sat down beside him and I was introduced to his wife!!! I decided to marry Herbert since Don was already spoken for.Though I never regreted my decision, I wonder what would have happened if Sue had not climbed into the car.Wish him a very wonderful and happy birthday from the woman who dreamed of being your mother for thirty seconds.
Much love to all, |
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Donny, Here I am At five years old Just around the time You came into the fold, You were my hero I loved running my fingers When we went for a walk All the practice I loved you then Love, |
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Dear Donnie,
I've been putting this off & putting this off, because I guess I wanted to say something so profound & meaningful, or write the best poem. Those feelings just got me stuck & I hate being stuck. So I decided I was just going to sit down & write what was in my heart. I miss you're not being part of the family, seeing you and spending time with you like I used to. The things I remember were our walks, and our talks with one another. I always enjoyed and felt comfortable with you. I loved our outgoings with the kids your and mine, it was a special time. We seemed to enjoy the same things and filled in the empty spaces for one another when they needed filling. The years have passed and in that time you and Bonnie have created another wonderful, loving family. My family has grown, moved on, but not moved away and for that I am grateful. What I'm trying to say is things have changed, but one thing will always stay the same. I love you, have loved you and will always love you Forever, |
 Don and Joan Then
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 Don and Joan Now
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Donnie: I have four things to say to you....push me in....me too....no butter.... HAPPY BIRTHDAY ! Much love and kisses. |
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Uncle Don Hope you have a Great Birthday. Sorry we could be there to celebrate with all the family. Love, |
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March 2001 Dear Uncle Donny, I'm sorry I won't be with you to celebrate your 70th birthday, but I wanted you to know that I'll be with you in spirit. While we haven't seen much of each other in recent years, I have vivid memories of our time together two years ago in Laguna Niguel - our dinner together with Bonnie and the kids at your home and our walk together with Nancy the following day through the shops. Since that time, my life has gone through many positive changes - new husband, new baby - and through it all I've thought of you often. All my love, |
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Dear Daddy Don, Happy 70th Birthday! It is hard to believe how fast the years fly by! Now we are the Moms and Dads! On this special occasion I wanted to take a moment to add my congratulations to you on your special day. Growing up as daughter # 4 was an amazing thing. Thoughts of good times filled with loving and caring moments are etched in my memory. Being with the Herzog family during those important years was part of what made me who I am today. I wish you many happy and healthy birthdays. It is truly my pleasure to have been daughter #4. Love, |
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Happy Birthday Don!! "70" will be a great year for you! After al, "76" (1976 that is) was special for both of us. The enclosed memorabilia was worth saving for this 70th party and should give your memory a laugh. It was such fun working together. Early on it was apparent you gave new meaning to the term "ladies man." Every time I answered the office phone it was another Ms. or Mrs. Herzog! Now, 24 years later you are still smiling with a grand sense of humor tact. You are special and so is your friendship. Have a wonderful celebration with friends and family. Love, P.S. Lets 'do lunch" on you return |
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Dear Donnie, Happy 70th Birthday. How the years have flown! The first time Bobby brought me to your parents home on the west side of Manhattan, you were only about 8 years old. I can recall Bobby trying to reach you how to tie your shoelaces. Unfortunately, over the years we were all caught up with our own little family and only got to see each other on some happy occasion and some not too happy ones. We are scattered all over the country and it was not always possible to get together. However, the bond and the love was always there. Enjoy this day with your loved ones, and may you celebrate many more healthy and happy birthdays. All my love and best wishes. Fondly, |
 Blossom, Cindy, and Christy
Photo Courtesy of Blossom
Tyler's bar mitzvah
Photo Courtesy of Blossom |
Dear Donnie: While I cannot locate any of our old photos of Joan, Donny, Barnet and Blossom - especially the four of us at Rifton where we spent every summer from early on through at ;east the first ten years of our lives. The three gorgeous blondes and me the dark one. We all loved each other and were so close. After Rifton the families spent their summers in Long Island Beach and we all loved it. I may not have photos but I know you have many wonderful memories to savor. I am however enclosing two photos of Catherine and Cindy's daughter Morgan taken when you last brought Catherine and Bradford to New York. If you think that was a few short years ago look at Morgan and Catherine today. I will enclose Morgan today. Its hard to believe that Bradford is in college. It was wonderful seeing you a few months ago in New York and you certainly did not look like a man "going to be 70". Keep up the good work! Enclosed also id the New York Post article you said you did not have about Doug. He certainly is handsome and what a thrill to see the name Herzog in headlines! Debbie, Jane and Jill complete the picture of a perfect beautiful family. I would be remiss if I did not give credit to the two mothers of this great clan, Bonnie and Sue. Stanley joins me along with all my children and their mates, Cindy and Del, Todd and Jeri, Christy and Tyler, in whishing you the happiest birthday ever. Love, |
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Dear Jill, Sadly I have no real mementoes from your dad except the card enclosed. Your grandmother sent it to us a year or two before she died. Glean from it what you can: a 12 year old writing to his first cousin and sending him a cartoon. Howard has no recollection that your dad was once called "Butch" but since "Butch" is in parentheses next to Don's name, he probably was, a nickname with which we have no familiarity. A book of memories is a excellent idea and we are sure it will work out well. I might add I came into the family over 60 years ago and my recollection of Don throughout the years is his brilliant smile. Hope you have a fabulous celebration-our love to all. Mildred and Howard Finkelstein |
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Dear Don, It's a pleasure to wish you happy 70th for many reasons...the most basic of which, that you have reached 70...and that I am here...and able to wish you all the best. The bonuses of it all is that your kids love you enough to plan this event...friends are there to share it and those who couldn't make it are sending their good wishes. It's so long ago that we shared those happy days at Syracuse and yet so easy to bring them all back when we stop and reflect at a time like this...I can still remember the countless times in the middle of everything we all stopped to pose for one of the thousands of pictures you took to record those carefree happy days....here's wishing you many more years and pictures to come. Frosh Bill |
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Dear Don- I find it almost impossible to believe you're soon to be 70 years young. Being a distant cousin, high school classmate, and Syracuse University roomie, I know I'm far younger (45+). but don't tell it to my social security administrator. Have no old pictures to enclose because divorces and 40+ years of moving left me with only great memories of our times together and the immense love and admiration I have always had for you, your parents and your beloved children. Only regret is that I just don't come down from my mountain top to see you in the 'lowlands" somewhere. With congratulations and love as always. Charles Israel |
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Dear Donny, As I sit down to write you a birthday greeting all I can think about is "our" youths together- living a block away from each other and seeing each other on a daily basis. That's the way it was with us - we didn't know any other way that could be difference. All four of the Herzog men lived within a five block radius - 72nd- to 77th and everyone got together during sometime of each day or night - including us. We were brought up like it was a "Herzog Empire" and we really did believe that we "Herzog's" were indeed special. Summer days were enjoyed at Long Beach, Rifton, and other Resorts in the mountains - as always the whole Herzog tribe was together. When you were about 10 it was time for you to come play and take care of my son Mickey. We just went from one generation to another. I went to all your school plays, events, and auctions at Columbia Grammar and felt like I was a part of your schooling. There's something between us - a warmth, friendship, affection and understanding that we can talk for hours and keep saying "remember when." I am enclosing some papers that are really exciting and inturn you can hand them down to your son and grandchildren. I had reprinted the front cover of a book -- published in 1917 and also the story of Philip Herzog's life. I'm sure you will find it to be a source of great pride and dignity. Frame it and keep it. It's your heritage. Recently we took a walking tour together thru Riverside Park and even the big boulder rocks that you used to jump off and ahead meaning to us. I'm so proud that you're my cousin and my dear friend and I want to wish you health and happiness and may each day be wonderful. Our ties are deep and there is that feeling we go so far and so close it's hard for others to understand. We know what we have going for us. Love, Hugs, and kisses on your 70th. |
 The good ol' days
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Dear Don: I am sure you remember this trip, it was when we were all tan, healthy and good looking. The idea of celebrating our 70th birthdays was probably the last thing on our minds, especially mine, cause I still have some time to go. (some, but not much). The nice thing about being 70, (or any age at this point), are the great memories of the people and places we know and love. I know there some trips you made with Karina and I that stand out in your memory, (like something you never want to do again), and those were just great. The one occasion I would not want to repeat was skiing down the mountain and finding I was flying without skis. When I landed face down and woke up, I think you asked Karina if I was dead,-- no just 3 broken ribs. Oh those were the days. There were other times I can remember, but for this occasion, I won't tell the world, you can reminisce on your own. I am glad that we were able to work together these past two years and spend more time walking down memory lane. I think it's been about 25 years, seems like yesterday. We hope your birthday is as great a time for you as it is for you family and friends who can share it with you. We are there in spirit. Love and Best Wishes |
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A Poem for Don: Love Lenni and Bob. |
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As for Don Herzog: I think we first met at Scatico in +/-- 1945. We were both 14. We started as "seniors" in bunk 15. We had a basketball player from Temple University for a counselor. He was named Jack Hewson, and he was studying to be a dentist. His wife was also a counsellor at the girls camp. Knowing our hormones at the time, I'm sure we would rather have had her as our counsellor. I can't remember the other counsellor. My memory of Don was blond, sun burnt, great smile and a very easy going nature. He was surely the best looking kid on the "upper hill". It was good being his friend because there were always girls around. Although I can't recall him being much of a basketball player, he was THE star of the swimming area. At the close of each year, during color war, there was always a swim meet. Don was always good for a few first places, and invariably the color war lead the day of the swim meet. We used to canoe together, sometimes to chase turtles, but mostly to hide under an overhanging tree, out of sight of supervision, and wait for the girl canoeists. Thus, everyone wanted to share a canoe with the main attraction. Then there was a girl camper, Sue Kohlreiter (spelling), considered to be the best looking girl at camp, well maybe she had an equal in Joan Greenwalt. Anyway, it was the perfect Scatico match. I seem to remember a few bumps in the road, but obviously not too many big ones. There was one summer that Don missed Scatio. Sue and I commiserated. I secretly hoped to take his place for that summer, but no chance. Then we became waiters. By that time, we were college freshmen and BIG TIME. We drank beer, played cards, chased the girls and just had a grand time. We lived in a small shack holding 4 waiters. Mickey Rogovan and another I can't remember. It was a wonderful summer. Of course I remember Joan. What a sweet girl she was. I can't say I remember Don's dad, but clearly his mom. It would be hard to forget those striking good looks. We stayed in touch during our college years, and saw each other from time to time in NY. After school, I moved away, and we lost each other for some years, only to reconnect in CA. Don called me a few months ago, finding me on the internet. It was like talking to my old pal in bunk 15. I guess some things never change. I'm sure he won't, and that's a good thing for all of us. Mr. Donald Herzog is very special person and a good friend. Sincerely, |
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DEAR DON, YOU'VE COME A LONG WAY BABY...AND MOST OF IT HAS BEEN A HOOT. HERE'S TO ANOTHER 70. Hugz, |
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A Ditty for Donnie Dear Uncle Donnie: Even though I haven't seen you in awhile, You're kind and gentle and tons of fun, That was no small feat in a house full of noise, And, yes, those fish, what an interesting treasure, And if those fish weren't enough, He ate the mailman, and a few kids too, Dance parties, beach parties, good times for all, You're cleaver, shrewd and oh very smart, What a package, what a deal, Let me wrap up this ditty with one final line, Love, |
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Dear Don, There must be some mistake....you cannot be 70 years old! Where did the years fly? Of course you are still THE MOST HANDSOME MAN. Whatever your secret is, please pass it along! David is going to look through his many photos to see if he can find some pictures of you that you don't have and send them along. We both wish you a wonderful birthday filled with lots of laughs, love and good health. Please have all your family give you a kiss and lots of hugs from us. Much love, |
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DEAR DON We don't have a photo You're as handsome as ever Six fabulous children It's so nice to see you You're and inspiration to all May this birthday be happy HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! With love and best wishes, |
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Here's a little pome (I don't write poems...just "pomes"...) for Don: I cannot believe you've reach the big seven - oh. I remember you swimming at Uncle Al's pool. Much love and hugs from your admirer...Tippie Happy Happy Birthday and many many more! Love you bunches. PS Please send me your address. I do not have your present one.....telephone number too... |
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I first met Don Herzog as a pledge brother of Sigma Alpha MU at Syracuse University.( Oh so many years ago ). We were wild eyed young men trying to figure out where we were going with our lives and very anxious to get there. ( Even though we didn't have a clue as to where "there " was ). Who was this handsome, bright young man who showed up at Syracuse with an "on board " girl friend ?! wow ! WHAT A GUY ! At first, I thought he was a little stiff and aloof. Then came "Hell week" and that straight laced young man became a wild man as we partnered to entertain the brothers with the most audacious slapstick comedy routines. Through the years and sometimes miles apart our bond of friendship has grown. As the years passed Don focused on family and children and children and children! He has always been a devoted husband and father. A man of high values and an unwavering sense of fairness. I know anecdotal stories would be more appropriate. But when I hear his name or see it in print, a warm fuzzy feeling comes over me. Don Herzog, the only thing I ever beat you at was...turning 70. I am so very happy and privileged to call Don Herzog, my pledge brother, Fraternity brother and best of all, "my friend ". I am truly blessed to be able to call him my friend. What a guy ! Happy Birthday Don...70 years old , Who'd a thunk ? Love, |
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Dear Donnie, Whenever there was a 'Herzog' event Harold would always be the first of the Maits to respond 'yes'. He never wanted to miss sharing an occasion with you and all of the 'kids' - at the firehouse or in Patterson. You were always his FAVORITE!!! I have been searching all over for a picture of you and Harold (it's somewhere). If I find it will send it. Celebrate and have a wonderful Birthday !!!! Love, |
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Dear Donnie, If roses are red and violets are blue God Bless Pal |
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My delay in sending a picture of Don is that I could not find our wedding book, which contains a picture of Don along with about ten other Sammy Fraternity Brothers celebrating my wedding in December 1955. Actually, I met Don in the fall of 1949 when he joined the Fraternity at Syracuse. Since that time, we have celebrated many happy occasions together (my wedding and various Bar Mitzvahs and Bas Mitzvahs). Attached you will find a picture of Don and Bonnie at Elizabeth's wedding in Palm Springs in November 1986. I fortunately convinced Don to move to California, an event I am sure he looks back on as a turning point in his life. A new wonderful wife and two more children and the outstanding lifestyle of Southern California. It's been a wonderful and exciting 56 years. May it go on for another 19 years so we can celebrate 75 years of friendship. Marshall |
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, DON HERZOG! THIS IS INDEED A SPECIAL DAY AS YOU CELEBRATE 70 !!!! JACK AND I WERE SO IMPRESSED WITH HOW GREAT YOU LOOK. IT WAS A PLEASURE AND A TREAT TO SEE YOU AT CHURCH LAST WEEK. YOU ARE SUCH A WONDERFUL FRIEND, AND WE ARE SO PLEASED TO WISH YOU A HAPPY 70TH !!!! YOU DESERVE ALL THE BEST. WE HOPE THAT THE NEXT 30 YEARS ARE THE BEST..BRINGING YOU PROSPERITY, HEALTH, LOVE, AND MOST OF ALL FUN!! ENJOY YOUR FAMILY VISIT, AND KNOW THAT WE ALL ARE THINKING OF YOU ON YOUR SPECIAL DAY, WITH OUR LOVE, |
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Was it the Sammy Pledge Class of '53, Who can remember stuff like that, How fast those memories might fade away, No we weren't the brightest, we weren't the jocks, Nice, really nice was a good word to describe Don Herzog. There are so many great memories tucked away in my head, It was during hell week and all hell had broken out. Happy Birthday, big guy. |
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DONALD HERZOG ON THE OCCASION OF HIS 70TH BIRTHDAY
ONCE UPON A TIME, IN A PREVIOUS MILLENNIUM HIS PARENTS JACK AND RUTH DECIDED THE WORLD NEEDED TO HAVE AN ADDITIONAL PERSON TO LOVE. WITHOUT THE BENEFIT OF DNA ANALYSIS OR GENETIC MANIPULATION, A BOY NAMED DON ARRIVED IN A CITY CALLED NEW YORK. ALTHOUGH THE HERZOGS LIVED A GREAT DISTANCE FROM MOST OF THE RELATIVES DESCENDED FROM RUTHS PARENTS, HENRY AND EVA SYROP, A CONSTANT AND CLOSE RELATIONSHIP WAS MAINTAINED THROUGHOUT THE YEARS. DON, BEING ONE OF THE YOUNGER GRANDCHILDREN, WAS EXPOSED NOT ONLY TO THE KNOWLEDGE, WISDOM AND INTELLECT OF NUMEROUS AUNTS AND UNCLES BUT ALSO TO THAT OF HIS VARIOUS COUSINS. HE NOT ONLY SURVIVED THIS ONSLAUGHT BUT ALSO RELISHED IT. TO THIS DAY HE RELIVES AND SHARES THE WONDER OF IT ALL WITH HIS IMMEDIATE AND EXTENDED FAMILY. IN ORDER TO AVOID MAKING THIS COMMUNICATION READ AS A EULOGY, IT MUST BE CATEGORICALLY STATED THAT DON IS ONE OF THE WARMEST, NICEST AND LOVEABLE PERSONS ANYONE CAN KNOW. THIS STATEMENT IS MADE WITH FULL ACCEPTANCE OF THE ANCIENT JUDEOHEBRAIC QUESTION, WHOS TO KNOW IF HE HAS A BAD SIDE? AND IN ANSWER TO THAT QUESTION, THERE IS NO ANSWER. WE WISH YOU A WONDERFUL HAPPY BIRTHDAY. WHEN YOU RETURN TO CALIFORNIA, YOU WILL HAVE TO COME TO THE NORTH BAY AREA SO THAT WE MAY CONTINUE THE SAGA OF LIFE AT WILSON AND HERBERT STREET. LOVE, |