Barbra Herman, long-time Steelheads employee, passes away

Boise, ID (12/17/14) – The Idaho Steelheads are saddened to announce the passing of long-time Team Operations Coordinator, Barbra Herman. Barbra lost her long battle with cancer this past Sunday, December 14th, at the age of 64.

“Barb was a wonderful, kind and tough woman that was a fixture of the Idaho Steelheads family from the beginning” said Eric Trapp, President and General Manager of the Idaho Steelheads. “She gave her time to the entire Steelheads family so unselfishly.  We were lucky to have her as our Steelheads Mom and we will miss her.”

Barbra began working with the Idaho Steelheads back in 1998 and worked all the way until 2012.  After leaving the Steelheads for medical reasons, Barbara would make the occasional visit to the front office and often attended Steelheads games, even as recently as the 2013-14 Playoffs. Everyone always looked forward to her visits.

The Idaho Steelheads plan to honor Barbara’s long-time dedication to the team when they return home on December 26th.

PLAYERS AND STAFF - PAST AND PRESENT - REMEMBER BARBRA

"Barb was a wonderful, kind and tough woman that was a fixture of the Idaho Steelheads family from the beginning.  Every player that came thru Boise met Barb first. Before you became a Full Fledged Steelhead you met BARB.  She truly was the “TEAM MOM” or “MUM” if your Canadian.    She took care of all the players travel arrangements, immigration and payroll.  If the players needed anything they were told – GO SEE BARB!  She treated all of the players and front office staff like they were her own kids.  She enjoyed fussing over the players and traveling to all of the road games to watch her boys!  She gave her time to the entire Steelheads family so unselfishly.  We were lucky to have her as our Steelheads Mom and we will miss her.  Love you Barb." - Eric Trapp, President and General Manager, Idaho Steelheads

"Barb was a very generous person who loved Steelheads hockey.  When I met her in ‘99, she was volunteering for the team as an administrative assistant, serving the team in any way she could.  Over time, It became apparent how valuable she was to our team both at home and on the road so a position was created for her.  She made all of the coaches better and, as a result, this entire organization better because she handled so many of the off-ice details, allowing the coaches to channel their energies into the on-ice product.  She was very professional, always a pleasure to be around, and she will be missed dearly." - John Cunnigham, President, Block 22, LLC

"Caroline and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Barb.  Barb was there from the beginning and played a special role in our organization. She meant so much to our front office, the players and many fans who she touched every day. We're thinking of Barb and sending love and prayers to her family and friends." - Cord Pereira, Founder and former Chairman, Idaho Steelheads & Diamond Sports Management

"I had the pleasure of working with Barb Herman during my short time in Boise in 2005-06, and although we only knew each other for two years, I knew immediately how important she was to the Idaho Steelheads. Barb was a person who cared about you as a human being and she treated the players as her own and made sure all of their needs were met. For all the good deeds she did, she asked for nothing in return, which taught us all simply to be better human beings. She was a true Steelhead. She will be deeply missed." - Glenn Stanford, former President of Block 22, LLC

"Barb Herman was a great inspiration to young players coming to Boise to further their hockey career. Barb was one of the greatest people I have met through my hockey journey. She will be sorely missed. She touched me and my family while were part of the Steelheads. She was a great friend! Barb we will miss you."  - Derek Laxdal (and family), Idaho Steelheads head coach (2005-2010)

"Barbie Doll, what an amazing women and friend she was to both Rachel, the girls and myself. I feel blessed to have had such a close relationship with her. Our regular lunch dates in Vegas with her favorite TGIF crispy beans and pep talks will always be with me. Barb was always so loving and a true friend. I’m so thankful for the memories. Until we meet again, your friend, Flick." - Marty Flichel, Idaho Steelheads (2002-2003, 2004-2012)

"Barbra has and had a profound impact on the team and fans.  RIP Barb...you will always have a special place in our hearts." - Kip Dribnak, St. Luke’s Sorts Medicine

 "Terrible news sorry to hear that, she was the kindest most caring person. Thoughts and prayers to her and her family." - Taggart Desmet, Idaho Steelheads (2006-2008)

"Sad day. She always brought a smile to my face you will be missed barb I am so thankful I was traded to Idaho to meet such a wonderful lady."-  Lance Galbraith, Idaho Steelheads  (2003-2005, 2006-2008)

"Barb was one of the kindest most caring people ever to be involved with the Steelheads family. An incredible loss, you will be missed." - Troy Edwards, Idaho Steelheads (1997-2000)

"It was a pleasure working with Barb and I always loved seeing her smiling face in the office and at games. You can tell by the responses that she was an amazing person to so many. She will be missed." - Michael Brady, Former Idaho Steelheads Front Office Staff

"She was amazing to work with! Always friendly and giving to those of us who worked with her!" - Jeremy Munroe, Former Idaho Steelheads Front Office Staff

"Barb made all the intricacies of being a minor pro hockey player easier and made settling in a new city feel like returning to a place that you've been your whole life. Her generous, selfless, and caring demeanor made hockey players,from all over the world, feel right at home. She will be missed by all those who were fortunate enough to know her. Rest in peace Barb." - Collin Zulianello, Idaho Steelheads (2004-2005)

"She did everything she could for anyone if she thought it would make them smile... Some fond memories... There is another angel looking down on us for sure... RIP Barbie Doll." - Dan Shermerhorn, Idaho Steelheads (2000-2003)

"So sad to hear and she will be missed by so many of us. She took care of the players and made us all feel welcome...thanks for letting us know Trapper. She was a tough woman with a big heart and glad she was a part of all our lives!" - Jeremy Mylymok, Idaho Steelheads (2000-2006)

"I'll never forget the great times we had during all of the hockey road trips. Barb was truly a wonderful woman and the definition of a hockey mom with her passion to help and care for others." - Jason Switzer, Idaho Steelheads Trainer (2009-2013)

"She was a true hockey mom us players." - John Shockey, Idaho Steelheads (1998-2000, 2002-2003)

"Gave of herself like no other!" - Clint Malarchuck, Idaho Steelheads Coach (1998-2000)

"She was the best. So generous with her time and effort, and always there for the players and their families. She will be missed." - Ben Keup, Idaho Steelheads (2002-2005)

"The Best! The Nicest and the most Loving Lady out there!!! A very Sad day but we know another star is looking down on us all. Herm Dog will be missed." - Scott Burt, Idaho Steelheads (2000-2007)