HERBERT GUSTAV DANIELSON
Herbert “Herb” Gustav Danielson, 88, a Whitman icon, died on Monday, December 17.
Born on May 27, 1919, in Boston, Massachusetts, the son of Oscar and Hilma Danielson, Herb lived in Dorchester and Lynn before settling at 459 Washington Street, Whitman.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 49 years, Mabel Wilson, his brother Robert and sister Doris. He is survived by his three sons, Arnold Danielson of Brockton, MA, Robert Danielson of Lynn, MA and Eric Danielson of Corinth, VT, three grandsons, Ian, Kyle and Kelson Danielson; several nieces, nephews and a large extended “adopted” family.
Herb was a graduate of Lynn English High School and Hyannis Teachers College and held two Masters Degrees from Boston University.
He served as a Naval Aviator for four years during WWII, achieving the rank of lieutenant. While serving in Europe during the war he met his future bride, Mabel Wilson. Herb and Mabel were married in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1946. They returned to this country to make their home.
After teaching physical education and history for 5 years Mr. Danielson became Principal of Whitman Junior High School in 1953 and held that post for 25 years. After retirement from the school system he served as courier for the Brockton Medical Lab for 10 years.
In 1973 he won the Silver Beaver Award for Distinguished Service to Boyhood, the highest award earned by a civilian from the Boy Scouts of America. He also won the Patriot Ledger’s “Golden Apple” award in 1995 for dedication and enthusiasm. He was also an Honorary Member of the Whitman Mothers’ Club. A member of the First Baptist Church for many years, Herb served as youth director, driving children to swim at the YMCA and acting as lifeguard at church picnics.
The Whitman Board of Selectmen honored Mr. Danielson this year by proclaiming August 19, 2007 “Herbert G. Danielson Day” in recognition for his decades of dedication to the academic and fitness education of the children of Whitman. The Whitman Recreation Commission declared that from that day forward the hours of 3-4:30 pm daily would be known as ‘The Danielson Buddy Swim’ with a permanent plaque placed at the pool “(to) extend deep gratitude to Herb for his countless contributions to the community.”
A private family ceremony will be held at a later date.