from Denise Smith

Denise sent this tribute on August 4, 2010, when Herman's plaque was added to the memorial obelisk at Central New Mexico Community College.

I met Herman Jottmann in Corvallis, Oregon when I was just 16 years old and he was 19 and attending Oregon State University. We were married 3 years later and joined the Air Force together. Our marriage only lasted 4 years but Herman was always a part of my big family (he didn't have one of his own) and he was my good friend for over 41 years.

Herman always reminded me of a big kid, and he would get so excited and passionate about the things that interested him. He had a wonderful grin and a great laugh. Herman was tentative and a little shy when meeting new people, but he always expected people to like and accept him, and he didn't seem particularly disturbed if they didn't. But it was hard not to like Herman; he was just a nice guy.

I didn't get to see Herman much over the years but we stayed in touch and I always knew he was there for me if I needed him. He knew the same about me. It's hard to think of not being able to call him just to say "hello" and "what's happening?" And yet, I know he is still around, like an angel on my shoulder.

I was watching some butterflies in a park here in Oregon the other day and Herman came into my mind. After a while, a unique looking, pale blue butterfly came and landed on my chest, just over my heart. It stayed there for the longest time and I said, "Hi, Herman. Thank you for being a part of my life." Then it flew away. I had never seen one like it before, and I don't think I will ever see another like it again. That was Herman - unique and special.

I know Herman loved New Mexico and seemed happy with his life there. I am grateful that he had a place in your lives and community and that he had the friendship and love of many of you as well. The dedication of this plaque would embarrass Herman but he would be pleased to know that he will be remembered and that his life touched many other lives and produced its own "butterfly effect" in the world.