Max Hugo Hermann

Max Hugo Hermann passed away peacefully at his home on April 30, 2024.

Max was preceded in death by his father, Hugo Hermann, his mother, Mina Polinski and his close friend Ed Harris.

Max spent his childhood in Germany, raised by his grandparents who owned a farm, butcher shop, and gausthaus. He immigrated to the United States at the age of 19 with $200, a job at Black & Decker, and very little English. He would share that he learned English from watching Bonanaza and listening to country music. 

He joined the US Air Force in 1973. He was stationed at bases in Germany, North Carolina, South Carolina, England, and Okinawa. He retired in 1993 after 20 years of service with the rank of Master Sergeant. During his service, Max would invite young enlisted troops to spend holidays with his family, helping provide them a second family while stationed overseas. His troops would often cite Max as their best First Sergeant. He was very proud of his service and was an active member of the Abingdon Veterans board for many years and assisted with several Veterans Park projects in Abingdon.

Upon his retirement from the military, Max moved to Abingdon, Virginia. On May 1st of 1994 he realized his longtime dream of opening a restaurant, The Tavern. He enjoyed success in his second career for 25 years. Max held Oktoberfest every year at The Tavern; wearing his lederhosen, dancing, and singing all night.

Max loved soccer. He coached his children's teams and was the rec league coach for Abingdon in the mid-90s before it was offered at the high school. He would watch every World Cup game, waking up in the middle of the night, if needed 

After retiring from the restaurant business, he enjoyed traveling, golfing, and his Monday Boys Night Out with his friends. 

Max was a man who enjoyed life. He loved food, music (especially ABBA), and the company of his friends. Max would entertain friends, family, and customers with stories from his colorful life. 

Max is survived by his daughter, Mona Hermann, her husband, Jonathan Crain of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; son, Nicholas Hermann, his wife, Amber Hermann of Lyndhurst, Virginia; grandchildren Maxwell, Ashby, and Jena Orebaugh, all of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; his sister, Silvia Hermann; stepfather Bruno Polinski; several cousins in Germany; his ex-wives Kathy Hermann and Kelly Hermann; and his special friends Joe Stratton, Ron Marchant, Oscar Rhea, Mike Carter, Erich Allen, Renee Clifton, and many others.

There will be a celebration of life at a later date. 

The family of Max Hermann is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service and Crematory, Main Street location, 427 E. Main Street Abingdon, Virginia 276-623-2700.