Dave Feit: Obit for Old Herbie

He wasn’t quite 20, but ‘gone too soon’ isn’t what springs to mind

Nebraska Athletics image

Herbert (Herb) D. Husker Jr. was born in a sterile, corporate environment in 2003. He was put to rest – and out of our misery - in 2023. His parents were Steve Pederson and a rogue focus group.

Serving as Nebraska’s official mascot for almost 20 years, Herb truly reflected the success and glory of the 21st century of Nebraska football. Debuting at the start of Frank Solich's final season, Herb was a true symbol for Nebraska's gravitation to mediocrity.

Herb's ancestors came from the farm, but Herb saw a better life for himself. He preferred to be known as a "Husker" instead of a Cornhusker, because he believed that image would "sell better" outside of Nebraska. But by rejecting his agricultural roots, he lost his identity.

Where his ancestors wore overalls, Herb preferred designer jeans and polo shirts. Herb did not wear a cowboy hat like a rancher. Instead, Herb's hat was more like a frat boy on spring break – a fun prop. Herb was proud of his muscular physique, even if he lacked the "farmer strength" of his burlier ancestors. Herb preferred manicures to calluses, and kale to corn.

During the offseason, Herb worked as an insurance agent in Ord, but could always be found hanging around Walmarts, discount clothing racks and ESPN graphics. He was proud of his extended-cab four-wheel-drive truck that never, ever touched gravel, or hauled anything larger than his e-scooter.

Herb's two biggest regrets were not living long enough to enjoy a hard seltzer at Memorial Stadium, and rarely going to bowl games…. but mostly the hard seltzer. Herb loved sipping on a White Claw as he talked about his Champions League fantasy team.

Herb was preceded in death by the Huskers logo that looked like it was stolen from Mississippi State. He is survived by his cousin - and best friend - Lil' Red.

A celebration-of-life service for Herb’s replacement - Herbie Husker - will take place Saturday, April 22 at 1 p.m.

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