The world is a sadder place today because one of the kindest, most humble and generous souls God ever created left us on August 23, 2014. Uncle Herman Goff or "Unk" as he was known by many nieces and nephews was 96 years old on July 3, 2014. He never lost his wonderful sense of humor up until the end.

Born in Saluda County and a son of the Late Fred E. and Pauline Ruff Goff, he was the husband of Ruth Wertz Goff. Uncle Herman never met a stranger and would give the shirt off of his back if he felt someone needed it. A US Army veteran, he served for four years in the South Pacific during World War II. He never lost an opportunity to recall those days and would bend the ear of anyone who would listen. He attended several reunions of his war buddies in Idaho.

Though he and Aunt Ruth never had any children, they were the surrogate parents to many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Unk was a perennial Santa Clause and he and Aunt Ruth took in several nieces and nephews while their parents were on the mission fields in South America. We always knew we were welcome in their home and they gave us opportunities to do things that we otherwise might not be able to do as we grew up.

Herman, after his military service, was employed with Saluda Commission of Public Works and was later a truck driver for FCX and Rodgers Fertilizer. He was a member of Red Bank Baptist Church.

Surviving in addition to his wife and many nieces and nephews are a sister, Lois Bedenbaugh of Joanna, a brother, Wendell (Monika) Goff of Saluda and a sister-in-law, Virginia Goff of Saluda and also a wonderful caregiver Jane Holecek whom for several years gave of her time with love and care.

Herman was preceded in death by a brother, Ray Goff and a sister, Evelyn Morris.

Graveside services will be 4:00 PM Sunday, August 24, 2014, at Mayson Memorial Cemetery with Rev. Gary Romines officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the graveside.

Memorials may be made to Red Bank Baptist Church, 309 E. Church St., Saluda, SC 29138 or to Hospice Care of South Carolina, 404 Batesburg Hwy., Saluda, SC 29138.