Henry W. Schenk, Sr., age 94, of Madison, Ohio passed away Saturday, February 3, 2018 at David Simpson Hospice House in Cleveland. He was born June 15, 1923 in Collinwood, Ohio to Charlotte (Neal) and Henry W. Schenk, II. He married Eleanor Geraldine Blanchette.
Henry lost his father when he was 6 years old. He became “the man of the house” determined to support his family. Henry graduated Willoughby Union High School. A veteran of the Marine Corp, he served in WWII in the Pacific Theatre. Later, Henry received a Purple Heart from Steve LaTourette. Henry worked as a tow motor operator at Caterpillar. He prayed a lot, often invoking the Lords name while offering a passionate blessing. He was a compassionate, caring and disciplined man. Henry used to say: “Don’t ever let ’em see you sweat. Don’t ever let ’em see you tired. Don’t ever let ’em see you scared. Keep your head down, and keep moving. He enjoyed living off the land and gardening with his wife.
He is survived by his children, Henry (Teri) W. Schenk, IV, Susie (Len) Delcalzo, Marleen (Lance) Sinn; grandchildren, Hank, Michon, Erin, Megan, Jared, Joshua, Mia, Molly, Christopher and Andy. He was preceded in death by wife, Eleanor Geraldine Blanchette Schenk; daughter, Scholene Hickok; his parents, and siblings, Mary, Betty and Neal.
It takes a special person to care for a family member in need during the twilight of life. Henrys grandson, Christopher, had taken on this loving roleloving grandson, loving best friend, loving confidant and loving caregiver. For this the family is blessed and thankful, and knows Henrys spirit lives on.
Friends will be received 2-4pm Saturday Feb. 10, 2018 at The Behm Family Funeral Homes, 26 River Street, Madison, followed by a Memorial Service at 4pm at the funeral home.
Contributions may be made in Henrys name to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland OH 44110.
Friends may leave condolences online at www.behmfuneral.com