Alan E. Herner

HERNER, Alan E., age 61, formerly of Centerville, Ohio passed away suddenly on Sunday, June 17, 2018. He was a 1974 graduate of Trotwood-Madison High School. Alan graduated from Wright State University in 1978 with undergraduate degrees in Economics and Political Science. In 1980 he received a Master of Science in Social and Applied Economics followed later in 2001 by a Master of Science in Computer Science, both at Wright State University. Finally, Alan was awarded a PhD in Computer Science and Engineering in 2011 also at Wright State University. Alan retired from the Civil Service in 2012 after 32 years at Wright-Patterson Airforce Base. Working at Wright-Patt, Alan started and managed several programs at the Air Force Research Lab contributing to the development of new technologies and capabilities for the Department of Defense. In 2013, Alan began teaching at Wright State University in their Department of Economics, first as an adjunct faculty member and then as an instructor. Teaching economics was a lifelong dream of Alans, and he was very thankful to be able to realize that dream at Wright State University, where he had spent so much time. Alan and his family became members of the congregation at Southminster Presbyterian Church in 2004. Alan served as a Deacon, was on the Fellowship Team, helped with the Food Pantry, was recently a part of the Finance Team, and often helped with other events around the church. He was a member of the most recent Pastor Nominating Committee, and his kindness and compassion made him an excellent Stephen Minister. Alan was also a member of the Freemasons at Roby Lodge in Monroeville, Ohio. Alan was a firm believer in lifelong learning and strove to be a perpetual student. In addition to his numerous degrees, Alan pursued new knowledge at every turn through his passions for reading, news of current events, writing softwarehe even solved calculus problems for fun. Alan ran cross country in high-school and developed a passion for ultra-running, in which he completed a number of marathons, as well as 50- and 100-mile races. Alan studied taekwondo, was an avid chess player, and a member of Mensa. He was a blood donor as well as a registered organ and tissue donor. Alan was a devoted family man. He is survived by Robbie (Thomas), his wife of 40 years; sons Jim and Tom, and daughter Robin. He is also survived by his father John Herner and wife Suzanne; brother Joseph (Terri) Herner and sister Rebecca Herner; step-siblings Greg Williams, Renee Reynolds and Christopher Ryan. He is additionally survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and special family friend Linda Gray. He was preceded in death by his mother Sarah Stradtman. A Memorial Service in celebration of Alans life will take place on Saturday June 30th at 2:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 7001 Far Hills Avenue, Dayton Ohio, 45459, followed by a reception. There will not be any prior calling hours. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Wright State University Economics Scholarship program (at https://business.wright.edu/economics/give-to-economics) in Alans memory. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.routsong.com.