Herbert Bode

Herbert Bode, 93, died peacefully on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Waverly Inn Memory Care in Arlington Heights, IL.

Herbert was born in the little town of Rasselwitz, of what is now known as Poland, but grew up in Germany. In 1960, he immigrated to Chicago. Though a chemist by trade, his certificate was not recognized in America, so he pursued many other interests. He started a machine shop in his garage, Wrightwood Machine, which grew into a successful 65-machine business. After downsizing to a smaller shop, Bal-Craft, he continued following his passion to help customers until he was 83 years old.

He was one of the founders of Niedersachsen Club, a German social club on Lincoln Avenue, which is still thriving in that community today. He held the office of Vice-President for many years. Herbert was a fun-loving, people-person, who made friends easily with his outgoing personality and mischievous smile.

Herbert enjoyed traveling immensely, especially cruising and exploring different countries and cultures. He also looked forward to visiting family in Germany, loved a beer/brat combo, delicious brunches, and making an occasional trip to the casino.

Herbert is survived by Eva Bode, who loved him for 34 years; his children, Marcus (Diane) Bode and Andrea (Alex) Scherr; Grandchildren, Teo, Vanessa, Natalie, and Liesel; and extended-family, Amy (Christopher) Hampton, Al Wagner and grandchildren, Aiden and Aria.

Opa was a special person who was truly loved and will be missed and remembered by all.

"Ein hundert Jahre nach mein Tode, 
Werden sie sprechen von Herbert Bode"