James G. (Herb) Sheehan 83, of 138 East Franklin St., Laceyville, died Wednesday morning February 29, 2012 at his home. He had been battling health problems for the last several months.
He was born February 17, 1929 in Mehoopany and was the son of the late Donald and Jane Gaylord Sheehan formally of Mehoopany.
Herb proudly served in the U.S. Army's 73rd Armored Tank Battalion during the Korean War. He was the commander of a M-47 Patton tank for three years.
After his discharge in 1953 he worked as a butcher at Dibble's Market in Laceyville and then an insurance agent for Metropolitan Life for 25 years. After retiring from Met Life, Herb worked for the Smith Agency in Wyalusing and Snell's Auto Sales in Wysox.
After retiring from the work force Herb volunteered at Tyler Memorial Hospital, the Laceyville Ambulance Association, Goodwill Fire Company, and was a member of the Rought Hall Post # 510 American Legion, of Black Walnut, PA., and the Endless Mountains Post #3583 VFW, of Mehoopany, PA. In addition he was a member of the local election board
In addition to his parents he was proceeded in death by a sister, Elizabeth "Betty" Brooks formerly of Mehoopany and Vestal,NY in 1969.
Herb is survived by his wife of 60 years, Iona (Saylor) of Laceyville, his two sons, Lanny (Susan) Sheehan of Bloomsburg,PA and Kevin (Gwen) Sheehan of Wysox. He had five grandchildren Jesse of Leesburg,VA, Michael of Chester Springs,PA, and Brittany of Bloomsburg. Luke of Chambersburg PA and Abby Butts of Wysox. Herb enjoyed his four great grandchildren, Bryna Jane of Leesburg,VA, Benjamin Landon of Chester Springs, Dawson of Wysox and Avery also of Wysox. Herb was also survived by two nieces Beverly of Rochester, NY; Barbara of New York City; and one nephew, Ray Don of Vestal, NY.
Herbie's interests included a passion for cars and "getting a good stretch of the legs". Herb will probably be best remembered for his daily walks around Laceyville with his dog Bailey. Herb was proud to say that " I never missed a day of walking for over twenty years".
At Herb's request there will not be a memorial service. The family, however will gather to celebrate his life when weather permits.
As an expression of sympathy, the family requests, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to The American Cancer Society or St. Jude's Children's Cancer Research Hospital.

Arrangements were made through the Sheldon Funeral Homes, Main St., Laceyville, PA. 18623.