Herman Leon Puffenbarger

Herman Leon Puffenbarger, age 84, of Blue Grass, passed away Monday, September 15, 2025, at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, in Monterey.

He was born August 21, 1941, in Blue Grass, the only child of the late Clarence Ivan “C.I.” and Eva Lillian (Rexrode) Puffenbarger. He attended grade school in Blue Grass and finished out his junior year in Monterey High School.

A life-long farmer, because he could be “the boss,” Herman had an unyielding determination, renowned work ethic, and a stubborn streak - which often worked in his favor on the farm. Throughout the years, he raised dairy and beef cattle, horses, sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens, and even chinchillas. Perhaps his greatest accomplishment in his agricultural career, and something he took great pride in, was the fact that at one point his flock of sheep was one of the largest in the county, with over 1,000 in total.

In his spare time, Herman could be found playing pool, hunting deer and bear, fishing, digging ginseng, searching the woods for mushrooms, or simply loafing with his friends. He also looked forward to the Highland County Fair and hunting season, which were his favorite times of the year. Additionally, he had a passion for riding his Harley Davidson motorcycles and often talked about his 1948 Harley with a suicide shift.

Herman was never at a loss for words, and will be remembered as an avid storyteller, with a larger-than-life personality. He could often be found enjoying the simpler things in life, such as sitting on the porch with a “pop”, chatting with anyone who would have a seat next to him. He always had a joke ready to tell, and left a lasting impression on those who knew him. Always quick to befriend newcomers and make them feel welcomed, Herman was amongst the first to establish a relationship with the Amish community, and found great joy driving them around the county.

Herman’s voice, his humor, his laughter, and his love will not easily be forgotten. They will remain as constant reminders to his friends and family as a life well-lived. He will be remembered as one who truly loved life, loved where he lived, and loved his family. Above all, his greatest pride and joy were his children and grandchildren, and he cherished them all unconditionally – he truly found great joy being able to visit with them and partake in their lives.

In the last years of his life, although his body weak and unable to do the things he had always enjoyed, Herman still had the same wit and zeal for life. And, although part of the Blue Grass Valley was transplanted to Heaven, a piece of Herman’s spirit will forever remain ingrained in the land he called home, and that brings us great comfort.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son, Craig Puffenbarger; and daughter, Vickie Gail (Puffenbarger) Newton.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Ann (Mullenax) Puffenbarger of Blue Grass, who devoted herself to caring for Herman and making sure he spent his final years comforted and well cared for. Additionally, he is survived by his daughters, Misty Goodbar and husband, Kevin of Monterey, and Nicole Frye and husband, Todd of Monterey; his son, Rocky Bussard and wife, Kelly of Franklin, WV; grandchildren, Kaden Wimer, Carly Pappalardo, Ellie Goodbar, Haylie Griffith, Tanner Bussard, Brian Wimer, Kayla Will, Paizley Bussard, and Craig Bussard; great-grandchildren, Eli Bussard, Mavis Wimer, Maelynn Wimer, Iris Griffith and Owen Will; as well as the mother of his two eldest children, Nancy Newman.

A funeral service will be held 3 p.m., Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Obaugh Funeral Home, McDowell with Rev. Larry Aikens officiating. Burial will follow in Union Chapel Cemetery in Blue Grass.

The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m., Friday, September 19, 2025 and additionally, one hour prior to the service on Sunday, both at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Kaden Wimer, Dennis Botkin Jr., Zack Wright, Norman Yoder, Marlin Rexrode, and Edwin Thompson.

The family would like to express a special thank you to all the kind and caring hospice employees and local caregivers who worked to ensure Herman’s needs were always met.

Memorial contributions may be made to Highland County Volunteer Rescue Squad, PO Box 268, Monterey, Va. 24465 or Highland Humane Society, PO Box 435, Monterey, Va. 24465.