Herman Elroy Muckenfuss

Herman Elroy Muckenfuss, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend to many, left his earthly home and took the hand of his loving Savior on Saturday, January 31, 2015 at 3:39PM. Herman was born on November 6, 1942 in Charleston, SC to the late Adam David Muckenfuss and Estelle Stack Muckenfuss. Shortly after the passing of his father, his mother relocated Herman and his 7 siblings to Jedburg to be surrounded by her family. After graduation from Summerville High School in 1961, Herman served two years in the US Army. Upon returning home he began work at Seaboard Railroad. Herman’s work ethic, which consisted of working a dawn to dusk schedule, started young in life and continued until his health declined several years ago. He was an astute businessman as evidenced by the number of local successful businesses he owned. Herman’s love for life could be found first, in his family; after this was his love of work. Work to him was pleasure. The term “workaholic” would define him perfectly. Then there was his ability to tell stories. He could hold an audience of friends’ captive for hours. Many times these same friends heard these stories over numerous times. However, he put new life and adventure into each one as they were retold. He had a remarkable sense of humor and wit. And lastly, he had a passion for old cars, also known as “street rods”. He was fortunate to have had several over the years and took great pride in each one. Most importantly, Herman was a true southern gentleman. He met everyone with a smile and a firm handshake. He was always generous, considerate and concerned about the well being of everyone around him. He truly set a wonderful example for his entire family as to how life should be lived and people should be treated. Although he went from modest beginnings to a successful businessman, Herman never dwelled on this success. He remained a humble servant. He never lost his Southern-gentleman ways. He always said, “Yes Ma’am and yes sir”…He was very concerned with values; that was his upbringing. Herman loved life and he especially loved his family and friends. In return, he was loved by all who knew him. He led by example; a life of honesty, kindness and loyalty. Dear to his heart was his supportive and loving wife of 47 years, Nell D. Muckenfuss. There is a saying that behind every successful man is a woman. Nell was “that” woman and he loved and appreciated her dearly. His love for his children and grandchildren was only surpassed by that of his wife. His children, whom he adored, are Todd Muckenfuss and his wife April of St. George and Nicole Wren and her husband Mike of Summerville and grandchildren: Bridgett and Timmons Muckenfuss and Cameron and Jace Wren. Other survivors include his loyal and devoted cousin; William G. “Bubba” Smith and his wife Mary Ann, four sisters and three brothers: Richard Muckenfuss (Pat), Betty Griffitts, Bernice Bird, Albert Muckenfuss (Gracie), Robert Muckenfuss, Dorothy Sutton (Jon) and Jenny Muckenfuss. Herman was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Jedburg, the Adult Co-Ed III Sunday School Class and Adult choir. He loved his church and was an obedient servant to God. The family extends its appreciation to Lutheran Hospice and the caregivers and friends who came forward with love and concern during Herman’s long battle with Alzheimer’s. Family and friends may call at James A. Dyal Funeral Home on Monday evening, February 2, 2015 from 6 to 8 o’clock. Funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon, February 3, 2015 at 1 o’clock at First Baptist Church of Jedburg, 121 Brewer Road, Summerville (Jedburg) Community. Burial will follow in Dorchester Memory Gardens, 11000 Dorchester Road, Summerville. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Muckenfuss Family Fund, c/o Coastal Community Foundation, 635 Rutledge Avenue, Suite 201, Charleston, SC 29403. A memorial message may be written to the family by visiting our website at www.jamesadyal.com. ARRANGEMENTS BY JAMES A. DYAL FUNERAL HOME, 303 S. MAIN STREET, SUMMERVILLE, SC 29483 (843) 873-4040.

Herman Elroy Muckenfuss

November 6, 1942 - January 31, 2015