Obituary of Herman Quiles Jr.

June 5, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Herman Quiles Jr. who peacefully departed this life on June 5, 2025, at the home of his Daughter Doreen and “Son” Thomas in Dumont New Jersey.  Born on February 15, 1952 (forever celebrated February 9, 1952) in Hell’s Kitchen New York having a beautiful family including of 2 brothers and 4 sisters and later marrying into the loving Grote family of 13. Herman lived a life filled with love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family.  A devoted husband to his predeceased wife and soulmate of 34 years Evelyn Grote Quiles.

Started as a teen working in Fulton Fish Market, then Epstein’s and finally becoming A proud member and brother of Local 94, International Union of Operating Engineers.  His amazing work ethic was second to none and found joy in machine repairs often called “MacGyver” as he could fix anything.  He was a serious man yet equally a jokester with an insane sense of humor matched only by his generosity. He was as strong as he was gentle. He had an insane love for not only interior home design but decorating for every holiday.  He found joy in everything home making and everything DIY that was only surpassed by his love for spending time with his grandchildren.

Even with such humbling beginnings he was a snazzy dresser taking great pride in his appearance from his head to his toes.  A blue-collar working man that knew the value of a good suit and loved to get dressed up.

Herman was known for his love of family and friends near and far, a flair for celebrating life and hosting parties (especially Halloween and New Years Eve) that spread over six decades. He was a Halloween enthusiast to say the least.  He had a gift for welcoming all of Hell’s Kitchen…. Memories starting in the 70’s as he dressed up for years as Santa Claus visiting the neighborhood kids… to hosting decades of summer outings at the old mill, Ramsey, lake Carmel and celebrations at 52nd street park. .  He was a true role model, instilling in his family, children, and grandchildren the importance of hard work, honesty, and perseverance.

A giant man amongst men.  Herman is survived by his children, Doreen, Michael, Danny, "son" Thomas and his daughter in laws Yvonne and Leslie, as well as his Granddaughters, Amber, Cheyenne, Skye, Nicole, & Autumn and Grandson Sebastian.  He was a devoted partner to Maria Garcia Perez for 22 years.  He was an amazing brother-in-law having been blessed with a long list of nephews, nieces both great and grand and is celebrated by a longer list of extended family and friends near and far.

He was predeceased by his parents Carmen and Herman Quiles Sr. and celebrated as a son by Herbert and Evelyn Grote.

We will forever cherish the memories of Herman’s life and the impact he had on us all. He will be deeply missed yet his memory and beautiful smile will live on through us.  Cheers to a life well lived.

Funeral Services