Herbert Charles Pinder Sr. was born on April 26, 1923, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, to Robert Mitford Pinder and Mary Helen Charlotte Rose. He pursued his education at the University of Saskatchewan and later at the Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration. Following the death of his father, he and his brother Robert Ross took over the family business, Pinder's Drugs, which became a cornerstone of their community.
In 1947, Pinder married Shirley Jean Hughes, and together they built a family legacy. Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, he held significant positions in various organizations, including serving as president of the Saskatoon Trading Company and as a director for the Royal Bank of Canada, TransCanada PipeLines, Canadian National Railways, and John Labatt Ltd. He also chaired the Saskatchewan Power Corporation, showcasing his influence in both business and public service.
Pinder's political career included a brief tenure as Minister of Industry and Information in the Saskatchewan cabinet from May to December of nineteen sixty-four. Despite an unsuccessful bid for election in Saskatoon City during the nineteen sixty provincial election, he was appointed to the cabinet by Premier Ross Thatcher. However, he faced defeat in subsequent elections for the Hanley constituency.
His contributions to society extended beyond business and politics; during World War II, he served with distinction in the Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve, achieving the rank of lieutenant commander. In recognition of his service and contributions, he was appointed to the Order of Canada in nineteen ninety-seven.
Herb Pinder's legacy continued through his family, with his son Herbert Jr. eventually taking over Pinder's Drugs, which was sold to Shoppers Drug Mart in nineteen ninety-two. Another son, Gerry Pinder, made his mark in professional ice hockey, playing in both the NHL and WHA.