Bob Hertel, Member of USC’s 1951 College World Series Team and Father of Two USC Stars, Dies

LOS ANGELES--Bob Hertel, an outfielder who helped USC to a 1951 College World Series berth and the father of two Trojan star athletes, died on Feb. 25.  He was 91. 

A 3-year (1950-51-52) letterman at USC, Hertel was a starting outfielder in 1951 and 1952 when the Trojans won the conference championship both years and advanced to the College World Series in 1951. 

He then played in the New York Yankees system before serving in the Korean War. 

Upon returning from military service, Hertel became a teacher and coach, first at Los Angeles Wilson High.  In 1962, he began as an assistant baseball coach at East Los Angeles College before becoming the head coach from 1964 to 1979.  He remained teaching in ELAC's physical education department until 1989. 

His son, Rob, was a two-sport star at USC;  he was the Trojans' starting quarterback in 1977 before being a member of the Philadelphia Eagles' 1981 Super Bowl team and he also was a three-year starting infielder at Troy who played on USC's 1974 College World Series champion.  Another son, Rick, was USC's designated hitter in 1977 who then played in the minor leagues.  Son, Randy, was a starting quarterback at Rice (1977-80). 

Hertel was predeceased by his wife of 68 years, Beverly, who died several weeks before Bob on Feb. 3.  He is survived by his sons Rob (Dana), Rick, Ron and Randy (Gwen), as well as 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.