Robert Bondy Herrmann | 1954-2019

1954-2019

Robert Herrmann, resident of Lopez Island Washington, a man of many talents including Broadway performer, perfume columnist, and award-winning Innkeeper died October 1st. Friends and family will remember his boundless energy, caustic wit, generous heart and genuine kindness.

Robert was born in San Francisco, CA in 1954. He was active in theater from a young age and continued throughout his life. He had an amazing singing voice, and was seen in many productions throughout the San Juan Islands during his 30 years on Lopez.

In 1988, Robert and then partner Chris Brandmeire opened The Inn at Swift Bay on Lopez. They provided such great inn keeping they were constantly winning best of mentions and eventually taught classes for potential B&B owners.

When the couple separated in the mid 1990’s, the Inn was sold and Robert decided to stay on Lopez. In 1996 he met Ron Hall. He also launched Fish Bay Mercantile, a successful gift shop and gallery in Lopez Village. In 2002 he closed the shop, took Barista courses, bought an Espresso machine and opened Caffe La Boheme next door to Holly B’s Bakery. For the next decade or so, this was the stage for Robert’s hospitality mixed with his charm, his caring nature, his quick wit, Lattes, cappuccinos, Biscotti, and his one-of-a-kind snarky humor.

Due to health issues, he sold the Caffe in 2015. He reinvented himself yet again, following another passion, perfume. He quickly became a reviewer for Australian Perfume Junkies and then Cafleurebon where he became a Senior Editor. He collected his own writings under “The Fragrant Wanderer.”

Robert was an avid reader and movie enthusiast; loved food; enjoyed theater, especially musicals; travel; perfumes; and life in general.

Robert passed away on October 1, 2019 at Whatcom Hospice House, Bellingham WA, after 2 months in Peace Health St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Robert is survived by his loving husband of 23 years, Ron; his brother Ted Herrmann of LA; two nephews and a niece and their families; his best friend Jane Scott of Mill Valley, CA; several cousins; and an extraordinary group of friends throughout the world.

“A Fabulous Life” celebration will be held on August 15, 2020 at Lopez Center for Community and the Arts.

In honor of Robert, go to a play, read a book, watch a movie, take a trip, go out to dinner, wear Chanel #5. Enjoy life. Be passionate.