Obituary: Donald O. Hermanson

As received from the Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Homes:

Oskar Bay

Donald Oskar Hermanson, 78, of Oskar Bay died January 7, 2020 at the Omega House of Houghton. He was born in Hancock as the son of the late Harold and Martha (Ruohonen) Hermanson. Don will be remembered as an avid storyteller, videographer, outdoorsman, musician, and friend.

Don’s love of music and entertaining others served him well throughout his life. It allowed him to hold a variety of jobs outside the “norm.” In his younger years, after attending art school, he worked as a roadie to famous rock stars – he was even presented with a platinum record for his contributions to their success. Touring allowed Don to travel extensively, but his love of the Keweenaw always called him home.

Because he liked to share a good story with anyone and everyone, Don carved out a specialized niche for himself in the entertainment industry, creating numerous award-winning videos. These mainly focused on lighthouses of the Great Lakes and the history and legends surrounding them. However, he eventually branched out to include videos about the supernatural, including ghosts and aliens. In more recent years, he authored a book on the Edmund Fitzgerald, compiling interview materials to capture the memories and stories surrounding its fateful last days.

Don leaves behind his Aunt Aili Dunstan; nephews Jeffery, Matthew, Timothy and Joshua Morley; numerous cousins; and many great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Linda Jo (Fred) Morley.

Funeral and burial services will be held in the spring.

To view Don’s obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net.

The Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Home of Hancock has been assisting the family with the arrangements.