HERMANN JOSEPH VON ROTZ Jan. 11, 1951 - Mar. 29, 2011

Hermann von Rotz, of San Francisco and Chico, was born in Red Bluff to Swiss immigrant parents, Niklaus and Anna von Rotz. He attended Mercy Academy, Mercy High School, Bellarmine College Preparatory, and Red Bluff High Schools. He also attended Shasta Community College and the University of Nevada at Reno.

Never content with a conventional life, Hermann's early adult years were spent exploring varied interests such as touring on his Harley-Davidson, transcendental meditation, and raising his share of goats and gardens. 

Among other disciplines, his formal studies included Archeology, Italian, and music.

Family bonds were important to Hermann and he maintained the link with his parents' homeland throughout his life. Of his many travels, he especially enjoyed trips to Switzerland, where he held court with an assortment of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Time and the influence of his father led Hermann to a busy career as a licensed building contractor. He purchased and renovated several properties in San Francisco, Corning, and Chico. No matter what stage of completion, he proudly displayed his work and discussed his plans at great length.

Hermann enjoyed family gatherings to the end. While he was well, he took those opportunities to share his vocal talents, most notably in the operatic style he studied while in college. Not to be outdone by Hermann, the rest of the family usually joined in.

Hermann will be remembered as an accomplished singer, an avid reader, and a larger-than-life personality. We will miss the easy grin, lively conversation, and confident swagger.

Hermann is survived by his partner, Yadira Romero; his three children, Erik, Marieke, Niklaus, and one grandchild, Kaden. He is also survived by his brother, Paul (Mimi), and sisters, Mary Sakuma (John), Helen Eicholtz (Glenn), Anne Cushman (Jack), Gigi Lee (Tom), Rita Ramsey (Gary), and Rose Marie Hammer (Harold). He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Nick.

Memorial services will be held in San Francisco and Red Bluff. Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 12:00 (noon) at the home of Hermann von Rotz, 3324 21st Street, San Francisco, followed by an Open House until 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Red Bluff. Reception to follow.

Published in Chico Enterprise-Record on Apr. 8, 2011

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