Gary B. Hendrickson
GREEN BAY, WI – Gary B. Hendrickson, 78, passed away on September 17, 2022 at Bellin Hospital in Green Bay, Wisconsin. In his final days, Gary was surrounded by the love of family, in particular his only daughter, Gini L. Hendrickson.
Gary was born at home to his parents due to a severe snowstorm on January 4, 1944. Gary, 100% Finnish, was the eldest son of Brynolf and Sylvia Hendrickson, who preceded him in death. Gary was devoted to his Finnish heritage and was proud to be a Finn living in America. Every year he attended FinnFest and in the last year of his life, Gary and his daughter attended Finland’s historic NATO application via the internet. Gary was the epitome of a Finn; independent, fiercely private, strong-willed and reserved. There is a saying that when a Finn says something, he really means it, this was true for Gary. He had the physical attributes of a Finn with crystal blue eyes and an infectious smile. If you were lucky enough to be in his presence when he smiled or laughed, then he saw the sparkle in his eyes.
Gary graduated from high school and was a tireless self-taught. An avid reader of several daily newspapers, he is always informed about world, national and local current affairs and politics. He spent hours and hours in the library researching news and topics important to him and his loved ones. He was known to clip articles from newspapers and share the information with his family.
Gary was a veteran of the United States Army who served on active duty in Germany during years of war and conflict. Gary worked at Fort Howard Steel and Wire. It was there, through a friend, that he met his (ex) wife and started a family. Gary went on to work most of his days with the Chicago and North Western (CNW) Railroad. He was an active member of the union and served as president of the union while working for the railroad.
Aside from Gary’s dedication to his Finnish roots, he was an avid car racing fan. Dirt racing was his favorite. He spent many, many hours on the track and rooted for Wisconsin race car driver Ron Berna. Gary’s daughter is deeply appreciative of the kindness Ron Berna’s family showed Gary in the last year of his life. When Berna’s family learned that Gary was completely paralyzed and unable to communicate due to severe strokes, they sent Berna products to him. Gary displayed photos of Berna and the racing team in his room and wore the team cap in his final months.
Gary also enjoyed Detroit Tigers baseball, Detroit Red Wings hockey, swimming, fishing, and warm weather getaways when the cold winters came to Wisconsin.
He is survived by his daughter, Gini L. Hendrickson.
Gary’s only grandson, Zachary, preceded him in death in November 2013.
Gary loved his daughter and grandson very much.
He was forever changed and heartbroken when his grandson’s life abruptly ended. Gary also lost his brother, Roger Hendrickson, unexpectedly in 1978.
He is survived by Sharon Hendrickson, his younger sister.
Per Gary’s wishes, no formal public services will be held. The public can offer her condolences to Gary’s daughter by contacting her directly or by visiting www.malcorefuneralhom e.com.
Malcore Funeral Home, Green Bay, is serving the family.