Herbert Joseph Hoelter, Jr.

Herbert Joseph Hoelter, a pioneering figure in criminal justice reform and a beloved community leader, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 20, 1950, in Yonkers, New York, Herb was the third of eight children born to Herbert J. Hoelter Sr. and Helen Parker Hoelter.

Herb's early life in upstate New York laid a foundation of resilience and determination. He graduated from Bishop Duffy High School in Niagara Falls, New York, where he excelled as the captain of the basketball team and a football player. His humble beginnings were marked by a variety of jobs—from working in a donut shop to laying asphalt and delivering newspapers—which instilled in him a lifelong work ethic.

Herb earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Buffalo and a Master of Social Work from Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania. His professional journey was profoundly influenced by his early work directing a youth diversion program at the Niagara Falls Police Department, which exposed him to the injustices in the juvenile justice system and fueled his commitment to reform.

In 1977, Herb moved to Baltimore, where he would leave a lasting impact. He co-founded the National Center on Institutions and Alternatives (NCIA), serving as its chairman and CEO. Herb’s core philosophy - that everyone deserves a second chance - was evident in his advocacy at NCIA and in its operations, which included hiring previously incarcerated individuals. Whether it was a professional mistake or a personal matter, Herb was determined to help or give everyone a second chance.

NCIA became a vital resource for those marginalized by systemic injustices. Herb built an organization staffed with advocates committed to empowering communities and assisting individuals in leading fulfilling lives. His contributions extended beyond local communities as he spoke, wrote, and appeared nationally as a criminal justice reform advocate and pioneer in the field of federal sentencing mitigation. Herb’s ingenuity led NCIA to use high-profile white-collar legal consulting to offset the various pro bono or other free community support NCIA offered. Additionally, Herb served on Stevenson University Board from 2013 to 2023 and continued on the President’s Advisory Board.

Herb's personal life was filled with love and adventure. He married Susan Marie O'Keefe in 1969, and together welcomed their three children, Jeffrey, Sarah, and Katherine. Herb's early passions included running, triathlons, golfing, and cars. During this time “Herb and Sue” were a staple of the local community, volunteering and helping in various ways at the school, church, and elsewhere. Herb coached his own children and countless others at St. William of York, the Institute of Notre Dame, and The Park School of Baltimore. After 30 years of marriage, Susan passed away in 2000.

Herb found love again with Martha Jane Ginn, whom he married in 2002. He cherished his 22 years of marriage to Martha. They enjoyed time spent with their grandchildren, on the beach in Avalon and St. Kitts, or simply relaxing with a good book by the pool. They could always be found tailgating at the Raven's games or cheering on the Orioles. In their travels throughout the US and abroad they formed lifelong friendships and enjoyed a variety of culinary delights.

Herb's legacy is marked by his profound impact on the lives he touched, his pioneering work in criminal justice, and the love and laughter he shared with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Herb leaves behind his wife Martha, his children Jeffrey (Jillian) Hoelter, Sarah (Bryant) Coble, Katherine (Summer) Hoelter, 10 grandchildren, siblings Joan (Larry) Castellani, Melanie (Sally) Hoelter, Peter (Sue) Hoelter, and Moria (Danny) Saviola, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Helen Hoelter, as well as his sisters Margaret Weber and Marybeth Mollo and his brother Mark Hoelter.

A memorial service to honor the life of Herb will be held on Thursday, June 6th at 2 PM. The service will take place at Stevenson University, Owings Mills Campus Gym Complex 11003 Owings Mills Blvd Owings Mills, MD 21117 with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the NCIA Foundation, continuing Herb's life mission to support and uplift others.

https://www.ncianet.org/ncia-foundation/