Herman Joseph Lackyard, 76, of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, passed away peacefully from suddenly diagnosed liver cancer on Thursday, March 19, 2015, at home with family by his side.

Born in Louisiana to Chester Darel Lackyard and Edna Marie (Champagne) Lackyard, Herman also lived in California and finally settled in Coeur d'Alene. He was a passionate man who enjoyed automotive repair as the owner and founder of Herman's Automotive Center in Coeur d'Alene for 20 years.

In his spare time, Herman enjoyed building classic cars, "throwing a few nickels" at the casino, dancing with his beautiful wife Irene, playing the congas and watching the History channel. After the closing of his business, he kept himself busy pitching in at his son-in-law's business, Elder Automotive.

In Herman's earlier years, he was the marketing director for Ascot Raceway Park in California, and was also a board member of the American Desert Racing Association. He rubbed elbows with the likes of Steve McQueen and James Garner on the racetrack, and also owned a mechanic shop where he worked on the cars of many celebrities. One of his daughter's favorite memories is riding with her dad in his dune buggy at the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, Calif.

Herman was married to his best friend, Irene (Hanson) Lackyard for 56 years! They met in high school at the local skating rink. Herman and Irene were very well known for their moves on the dance floor, and were avid followers of the band "Crossfire."

He was also proud of his two daughters, Dina McBride and her husband Jim of Ritzville, Wash., and Amy Elder and her husband Jeff of Coeur d'Alene; and his four grandchildren: JD, Tyler, Michael and Jeffrey. He is also survived by his three sisters and two brothers: Patricia, Jennifer, Annette, Darrel and Dennis; as well as his many loving nieces, nephews and other friends.

A special thank you to Dr. Snyders and Hospice for their loving care and support. Also, thank you to English Funeral Chapel for their compassion.

The family will hold a private celebration of Herman's life.