Herrick S. Roth

Herrick S. Roth passed away peacefully Jan 31, 2008.

Herrick was born March 19, 1916, in Omaha, Neb. He moved to Hot Springs, S.D., at age two, and lived there in his beloved Black Hills until he came to the University of Denver in 1933.

Herrick had an intense interest in water issues. He spent many hours interviewing water leaders on a variety of topics from the challenges of water development and management to the origins of collaborative efforts such as the Colorado River Headwaters Forum. He will be missed.

Herrick served in World War II, taught in Denver Public Schools, was a state and national leader of the American Federation of Teachers, and served terms in both the Colorado House and Senate. Herrick was the president of the Colorado Labor Council from 1954-1972.

In 1978, he founded the Colorado Forum, one of his most notable contributions to the state of Colorado. Herrick was a civic leader extraordinaire. To his family he was “Pop,” and was loved dearly.

He is survived by Marjorie, his wife of 67 years; sons Wayne (Kathleen) of Seattle, Alan (Lulu) of Denver, and Martin (Laura) of Holyoke; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Herrick’s memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 13, at Wellshire Presbyterian Church, 2999 S. Colorado Blvd. in Denver.

Donations may be made in Herrick’s name to the Colorado Forum Donor Advised Fund at the Denver Foundation, 55 Madison, Eighth floor, Denver, 80206.