On the quiet street of Greenbrook Lane, resides a man who is not just a neighbor but a living testament to resilience, sacrifice, and community spirit. Herb Sheaner, a World War II veteran, has called this neighborhood home for decades while raising a family and contributing in many ways to this community.

 

Born and raised here, Herb has witnessed the evolution of Lakewood from an open space with no houses beyond Abrams to the vibrant community it is today. He fondly recalls an amusing story and mentions, “White Rock Lake had a swimming designated swimming area.  Once when I was a teenager, I was fishing on one of the piers with a small rope and large hook when something took the bait and broke the rope.  I didn’t see what broke that rope but from then on, I had no desire to swim in White Rock again!”  

 

Herb's love for this community is deeply rooted, having returned from Germany at the end of World War II. He and his wife, Gloria Sheaner, tied the knot in 1956 at Lakewood United Methodist Church on Abrams Road. Their family has since grown, with three children - Mike (married to Charlotte), Kelly (married to Charles Secker), and Patti Hastings. The Sheaner legacy continues with grandchildren Bert, Anna, and Dimitri.

 

Herb's commitment to his country is undeniable. Drafted at the end of his first year at Texas A&M University in 1943, he served in the 106th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army as a Corporal. Designated as Co G Scout and Sniper, Herb was deployed to Germany in 1944 and found himself on the front lines at the onset of the Battle of the Bulge. He and about 500 other survivors from his regiment were completely surrounded, deep behind enemy lines, with little or no ammunition, food or water. Captured by the German Army on the 5th day of the battle, Herb spent the remainder of the war as a Prisoner of War (POW) until he and a companion managed a daring escape in late April 1945.

 

His wartime experiences earned him the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, badges of honor that symbolize his bravery and sacrifice for the freedom we enjoy today. After the war Herb earned degrees from the University of Texas and University of Michigan and returned to Dallas to establish a successful business.

 

Herb's connection to the neighborhood goes beyond his military service. He's been an integral part of the community fabric. Reflecting on his favorite memories, Herb states, “I’ve always had a love for sports, in particular, sports that involve my kids.  I have wonderful memories of coaching Mike’s YMCA football teams from the 5th and 6th grade, and still remember the misdirection play that the team executed so well to win the league championship.  I was head Track and Cross Country at Jesuit High School from 1955-1975 and was honored to be inducted into the inaugural Texas Track & Field Coaches Association Hall of Fame. All three of my kids were competitive swimmers winning many invitationals, meets, and state championships.  Mike was a state champion in swimming, Kelly was a cheerleader at Woodrow Wilson and Patti, a horse lover, was a competitive barrel racer. Gloria and I were at every event to coach or cheer them on.

 

Herb's story is not just one of personal triumph but a testament to the strength and unity of the community he calls home. As we pass by 7151 Greenbrook Lane, let's remember that behind those doors resides not just a neighbor, but a hero and a living piece of history, enriching our neighborhood with his presence and wisdom.