|
Henry worked for the Department of Roads for the State of Nebraska in the 1960’s and later was employed by Trinity Steel Company. He belonged to the International Catholic Deaf Association and Sacred Heart Church. Henry enjoyed bowling, model trains and life in general. Henry died March 22, 1994. He is survived by his wife, Linda, and six children.
|
Todd Hoover
I vividly remember Henry as he was on my case. He REALLY intimidated me during my sophomore year so I had to figure out a way of turning a bad situation [fear] into a good situation. I decided to try the old technique of "kill with kindness"! Low and behold, it worked. In the end, he actually turned to be a good guy. Important thing: Thanks to Henry for teaching me a lesson in life! I will always remember this lesson and passed in along to my grandson.
I saw Henry from time to time while still in Lincoln and he always made a point of talking with me. Thanks, Henry, for this important lesson.
TJH Aug 2010
Marvin L. Itzen
I knew Henry through our mutual friendship with Gerry Hergenrader. Henry was a big, handsome, kind of goofy, fun loving guy.
First some history. Henry had a pretty serious hearing problem that I believe was the result of a childhood illness. Due to this problem, he wore hearing aids and his speech was affected. This led to some episodes that were funny and then some others too. If it was funny he would catch on and milk it till everyone roaring. If he got it wrong, well.
Remember, at this stage of our lives any deviation from physical perfection was a big deal. If Henry was close or looking at you, I think he got it all; but regardless, if he missed something I don't ever remember him asking for it to be repeated. So, if you miss something that is said and you are loath to have it repeated the response can be hilarious or unfathomable. If the comment was off the mark, combined with his flawed speech, it was easy for some to think he was slow or dim witted. That was not the case at all.
Henry was great guy who was both ornery and funny. A case in point: We were in class and he had committed some forgotten sin so the teacher was, lets say, reprimanding him. When he had had enough he simply reached up and pulled both hearing aids out and sat there with a big grin. Game over. Teacher went back to the desk and Henry, with everyone laughing, replaced the aids.
Henry carried his burden with grace and humor. Quite a feat when you consider that the same illness that robbed him of his hearing also, I believe, damaged his heart and led to his early passing from heart troubles. I wonder if he knew then? (Probably)
I can only imagine the times of pain and frustration that were so well hidden. I wish I had understood better and been more compassionate.
Henry, I apologize and I thank you. I learned a lot, too slowly, but I did learn and I remember you fondly.