John F. "Jack" Henkel

Jack Henkel, Hartland, died on April 22nd in his home with family surrounding him.

He was born on February 15, 1934, to Raymond and Anna Henkel in Milwaukee. Jack served two years in the US Navy. On September 12, 1959, he married his wife Kathleen “Kathie” Furey. They were married for more than 60 years. They moved to Hartland in 1972. Together they raised four sons and spoiled six grandchildren.

Jack was employed in Milwaukee at the United States Postal Service retiring after 37 years. For the next 30 years he enjoyed doing things he loved the most-camping, fishing (tastes like chicken), and tending to his house and yard. His greatest pleasure was spending time with Kathie, his children, and grandchildren. He was a loving friend to many. He loved gathering his friends and playing guitar and sheepshead. Some of his favorite hobbies were NASCAR, model trains and bird watching (but not those pesky squirrels). Jack had immeasurable talents for painting, drawing and wood working. He truly was a “Jack of all trades”. Jack was a devoted and active member of St. Charles Parish in Hartland.

He is survived by his wife Kathie, his sons Tom (Melissa) Tim (Jody) both of Hartland and Jon (Jeff) of St. Paul and his grandchildren Josh, Bob, Sam, Zach, Maddy and Lizzie. He is also survived by his sister Carol (Russ) Luther, sister-in-law Susie, and brother-in-law Dennis Ryan, all of Brookfield.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son Bobby, his brother Jim, his sister Mary Ryan, parents, other family members and cherished friends.

Heartfelt thanks to AngelsGrace Hospice for their care and compassion.

Thank you all for your support, love, and prayers during this difficult time. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic we have decided to celebrate Jack’s life with immediate family. It saddens our hearts that we cannot be together.

However, we would love for you to join our live streamed celebration on the
St. Charles website on Saturday, June 20th at 10:30 AM.

We pray for the day when we can gather safely again and get caught up with all of you.

Love Kathie and the Henkel family.

If desired, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Charles’ St. Vincent de Paul Society or the charity of your choice.