Remembering Herman Jeffer, Esq.

Herman Matthew Jeffer, Esq., passed away in his one-hundredth year on January 5, 2025. Mr. Jeffer served Christian Health for nine years as a founding member of our Foundation board of trustees, including time as board chair. Following his departure, he became the Foundation board’s only chair emeritus, leaving behind a legacy of faithful service to the Lord and our community.

Mr. Jeffer pursued higher education at Calvin College (1950), Duke University, and NYU Law School (JD), passing the New Jersey Bar in 1955. He spent his decades-long career practicing law at his firm, Jeffer, Hopkinson, & Vogel, with his valued partners of nearly 65 years. In 1961, he was admitted to practice law before the U.S. Supreme Court, successfully winning a case on behalf of his client that changed certain U.S. banking laws with a significant decision that is still in force today. Mr. Jeffer also passed the Florida Bar in 1974 and founded the Florida firm Jeffer and Cioffi, thereby broadening his professional reach.

Mr. Jeffer was an astute business leader and investor. He served as a director of countless public and private financial institutions and as counsel to many financial, municipal, and not-for-profit entities. Mr. Jeffer founded numerous local and regional banks, invested in various startup companies in the manufacturing and technology industries, and developed many real estate projects nationally. His experience and wise counsel served both legal clients and business associates well for decades.

Christian Health was among those blessed by his wisdom and expertise. As a Christian Health Foundation board member and chair emeritus, Mr. Jeffer supported Christian Health with his knowledge and business acumen after retiring from active legal practice. He was especially engaged with the vision and planning of The Vista.

Mr. Jeffer and his late wife Marjorie were also longstanding supporters of Christian Health’s mission. We give thanks to God for their faith, altruism, and deep sense of community.

Mr. Jeffer was a native of Midland Park, after which he and Mrs. Jeffer resided in both Wyckoff and Jupiter, Florida, for many years. Mr. Jeffer moved to The Vista for the summer months when it opened in 2021 and was an active resident, participating in social events and activities with his friends and fellow residents.

“Before and during Mr. Jeffer’s board tenure, he faithfully supported Christian Health’s growth and the impact of our mission,” said Douglas Struyk, CPA, LNHA, Christian Health CEO Emeritus. “He was a trusted confidant, and I was always grateful for his valued friendship, wise counsel, and constructive encouragement. I was fortunate to speak with him just a few days before he passed away, and as always, he was highly engaged, enthused, and inviting. He lived a life that reflected the fruits of the spirit and as a result enabled so many others to benefit from his faithful commitment.”