Joan Herman

Joan Elaine (Petru) Herman, 78, of Shiner, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 17, 2026. 
She was born on November 10, 1947, in Shiner, to Adolph and Helen (Werner) Petru. Joan was raised in Shiner alongside her four brothers: William (Bill), Larry, Michael and Johnathan. 
She attended St. Ludmila Elementary and graduated from St. Paul High School in 1965. 
Not long after, she met the love of her life, Edwin, and the two were married on June 3, 1967 at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Shiner. Together, they built a loving home and were blessed with two children, Brian and Michele.
In 1966, Joan followed her passion and opened her own hairstyling business in Shiner. Her work was more than a career - it was a calling that allowed her to connect with others and form lasting friendships throughout the community. She continued styling hair with dedication and pride until just weeks before her passing. 
Above all, Joan treasured her family. She found her greatest happiness in time spent with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Known affectionately as “Nana,” she created a home filled with warmth, love, and wonderful meals. 
Her Sunday dinners and holiday gatherings brought everyone together, and her banana pudding and cheese and poppyseed rolls became cherished family traditions - always made with enough to share.
Joan is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, Edwin John Herman; son, Brian Christopher Herman and wife Michelle; daughter, Michele Herman and partner Heather; brothers, Larry Petru, Michael Petru (Viki) and Johnathan Petru (Clare); grandchildren, Christopher (Kelsie) Hermann, Matthew (Ashley) Herman and Emma Herman; her step-grandchildren, twins Hendrix and Halle Elliott, and Maya Elliott; and great-grandchildren, Klaira Herman and Averie Herman.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, William Petru. 
While her passing brings deep sorrow, her family finds comfort in knowing she is at peace, free from pain, and welcomed home by the Lord. 
Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. Wednesday, April 22 at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, with rosary recited at 9:30 a.m. 
Funeral Mass will follow, with interment at Shiner Catholic Cemetery. 
Pallbearers are her grandsons, Christopher Herman and Matthew Herman; step-grandson, Hendrix Elliott; and nephews, Billy J. Petru, CJ Knight and Travis Kremling.