Of Santa Barbara, California, passed away from lung cancer at his home in Henderson, Nevada, on March 9, 2013. He was 80 years old. Leroy was born in Los Angeles, California on May 8, 1932. He graduated from Santa Barbara High School in 1950, and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of California at Santa Barbara, and an MBA from National University.
As a member of the Santa Barbara Armory, Leroy spent three years in the Korean War, earning the Korean Service Medal with two service stars. Upon return, Leroy completed college and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the US Army Field Artillery. After attending flight school, he served 29 years in the Army before retiring in 1979 at the rank of Colonel. During his career, he twice served with honor in Vietnam, earning the Air Medal with “V’ Device and 45 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Bronze Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, a United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Commendation Medal, Legion of Merit, Master Army Aviation Badge, Meritorious Service Medal, and the Purple Heart.
Leroy is predeceased by his wife of 51 years, Jacqueline Ruth (Snyder) Herrick, and his brothers, Louis (Lee) Herrick of Santa Barbara, and Glenn (Geri) Herrick of Reno, NV. Leroy is survived by his children, Brad Jay Herrick of Morgantown, VW and Lorna Herrick (John) Earley of Highlands Ranch, CO- three grandchildren- James Herrick of San Francisco, CA, Kristin Earley of Highlands Ranch, CO, and Kyle Earley of Laramie, WY- nephews Jack Herrick of Lompoc and David (Pam) Herrick of Santa Maria; and niece Robin Herrick of Reno, NV.
As per his wishes for “one last flight,” Leroy’s ashes were scattered by airplane along with those of his wife, Jackie, on Saturday, June 8, off the coast of Santa Barbara. Prior to the ashes being scattered, a military Honor Guard performed a flag ceremony, followed by Taps and a 21 -gun salute on Stearn’s Wharf.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Rose Hospice in Henderson, NV, or the charity of your choice.
