Joe Herr

MADISON - Joe Herr graduated from Grafton High School in 1984. He was a three-time state qualifier in wrestling, making the state finals his junior year. He wrestled for three years at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, graduating in 1990 with a degree in construction management. Herr works for Tri-North Builders and is a senior project manager.

Herr lost a son with cerebral palsy to pneumonia 16 years ago. Logan Herr was just 4 years old. In his son's name, Joe Herr founded Logan's Heart and Smiles, a nonprofit organization that builds wheelchair ramps and modifies houses for families with disabled children. (Learn more at www.logansheartandsmiles.org.) He said the group builds two to five ramps a year.

Herr is also known as Madison's leprechaun and leads the St Patrick's Day parade. Throughout the week leading up to St. Patrick's Day, Herr visits American Family Children's Hospital, St. Mary's Hospital, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital hospice and numerous schools. And in case anyone is wondering, Herr is not Irish, but German.

Herr had a kidney transplant five years ago, receiving the kidney from his wife, Lauren. The couple have a son named Brian and live in Verona.

The News Graphic caught up with Herr recently and asked him a few questions about himself.

Q. What is your favorite hobby?

I love old trucks and their history.

Q. When was the last time you visited your hometown?

This past Christmas.

Q. Favorite sport or activity?

I'm still active in biking and water sports. I've also competed in sprint triathlons.

Q. What motto do you live by?

Accomplish something ? try to appreciate or help someone each day.