William & Gladys Herrly Memorial Scholarship Fund

Gladys' greatest love and compassion in life were children. In 1965 Bill and Gladys opened their hearts and home to foster children, serving 44 years and welcoming 126 children into their home. During this time they adopted three children, Christine, Lori, and Jennifer bringing the family to eight. In 1998 Bill and Gladys were recognized as Foster Parents of the Year for the state of Minnesota. Gladys was grateful for all the placement of children and staff support she received from Koochiching County Family Services. William "Bill" Herrly, age 78 of Int'l Falls, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, September 13, 2004 at his home.He was born June 13, 1926 in Olmsted County, MN. to Charles and Ella Mae Tillitson He was adopted by Al and Myra Herrly of Northome in 1938. He moved to International Falls in 1952. Bill, having been adopted himself, made it easy for Gladys and himself to open their home and hearts to Foster Children. Over many years they had 120 children and all of them had a special place in Dad's heart. Bill served in the United States Navy during WWII from 1943- 1947 and received the Purple Heart Medal. He was a member of the VFW Club and the Calvary Covenant Church in Northome, MN. He started working for Boise Cascade in 1952 and retired in 1984 with 32 years of service. This fund will support the William & Gladys Herrly Memorial Scholarship.