Richard Karl Hensel

Richard Karl Hensel, 84, was welcomed joyously into his heavenly home on Tuesday, April 14, 2015.  Richard was surrounded in the weeks preceding his death by his loving family that consisted of his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  Richard’s indomitable spirit, sense of humor, and tenacity lightened the hearts of his family and anyone else who was fortunate to be in his presence in this, the final days of his journey here on Earth.  It was in this time that Richard insisted on being the comforter, instead of the one seeking solace.  Our hearts were made lighter, and our bond as a family grew tighter as a result of his dignity, grace, and undying love for us all.

Richard was born on June 12, 1930, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Harry and Grace Hensel.  Richard served as an Army medic during the Korean Conflict, and he remained a proud United States Army Veteran throughout his life.   Richard was employed by the Magnavox Corporation as an Accountant, and retired from the company in 1990.   Richard was an accomplished dancer, golfer, and tennis player in his lifetime.  He wasn’t too shabby as a high-diver, either.   As a young man, Richard performed in Minstrel shows, musicals, and Vaudeville acts showcasing his wide range of talents.  .  At any given moment, Richard could launch into a pitch-perfect show tune, comedy act, or impromptu soft-shoe routine.  No musical was off limits in his repertoire, nor was any joke.  He had a knack for remembering elaborate anecdotes, and more importantly, a gift for delivering them.

Richard is survived by his wife of 34 years, Lou Ann, of Fort Wayne; daughters Michelle Hensel, of Port Townsend, Washington;  Sheila Lawhead of Fort Wayne, Cheryl Pike of Fort Wayne, and Angela Ray, also of Fort Wayne.  He is also survived by his son Joseph (Vicki) Faurote, of Richardson, Texas.  Fourteen children had the absolute privilege and delight of calling him “Grandpa”, in addition to six children that lovingly referred to him as “Great-Grandpa”.   Richard was preceded in death by his parents, and by his brother, Jack.

Memorial services for our beloved Husband/ Father/Grandfather/Friend are pending at this time.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations to Trinity Lutheran Church on Saint Mary’s Avenue, or Worship for Shut-Ins be made in Richard’s name. 

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