Nov. 22, 2010
Bronx, N.Y. -
The Fordham University community lost a valuable member last Friday with the passing of Athletic Hall of Famer Herb Seidell, FCRH '50, a former football Ram as well as a benefactor of the football program, at the age of 86.
As a junior in 1948, Seidell was among legendary sportswriter Grantland Rice's selections for All-East recognition. In Seidell's senior season, he was a key blocker for a passing attack that led the country in yards per game. He was the starting center and captain of both the 1948 and 1949 Ram football squads, playing under the leadership of coach Vince Lombardi. He was also a two-year member of the Fordham golf team.
Seidell, a 1993 inductee into the Fordham University Athletic Hall of Fame, was presented the Mara Family Award by Wellington Mara, a 1937 Fordham College graduate and the late co-owner of the New York Football Giants, at the 2005 Gridiron Awards Dinner for his loyalty and generous support to the Fordham football program.
A World War II veteran and founder of North American Engineering Sales Division in 1972, Seidell is survived by sons James R., Martin A., Herbert A., Jr. (Barbara), Christopher T. (Jeanne), and Patrick M. (Gloria) as well as by 15 grandchildren, one brand new great-grandchild, and dear friend, Jan Kerr.
A wake for Seidell will be held tonight, November 22nd, at the Fairchild Funeral Home, 1201 Franklin Ave., Garden City, N.Y., from 7-9 PM (directions). A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, November 23rd, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Franklin Ave. & Fifth Ave., Garden City, N.Y. 11530 (directions). In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice Care Network, Woodbury, NY (www.hospicecarenetwork.org) would be appreciated.
New York Times Obituary
