Herbert Heller was born in April 1929 in Teplice-Šanov, Czechoslovakia. He was the younger son of engineer Karel Heller and his wife, Melanie (née Porges). At age 12, he and his family were deported by the Gestapo to the Theresienstadt (Terezin) Ghetto, and later to Auschwitz-Birkenau. During the forced Nazi death march, he made a miraculous escape by himself at age 15.

Emigrating to the US the following year, Herbert settled in San Francisco, worked at Macy’s while attending night school, and joined the U.S. Army Reserves, becoming a citizen in 1952. He married Annette (née Zion) in 1956, and together they raised three daughters.

In 1958, Herbert opened a children’s clothing store in San Rafael, which he operated for nearly 50 years. Known for his kindness and perseverance, he became a beloved figure in his community.

After six decades of silence, Herbert began sharing his Holocaust story in 2004, speaking to thousands of students and inspiring countless young people with his message of courage, hope, and remembrance. In 2020, Herbert was honored with the Jefferson Award, which recognizes ordinary individuals who perform extraordinary acts without seeking recognition—a fitting tribute to his quiet but profound impact. 

Herbert passed shortly after in 2021, leaving a lasting legacy of resilience and compassion, as well as ten grandchildren.