Michael Henman

Michael Gerry Henman of Girdwood passed away January 22, 2014 in Anchorage.

Michael was born December 27, 1970 in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines. He arrived in the United States in 1974 with his parents Michael B. Henman and Alejandra Russell and his little sister Michele. Michael came to the Anchorage area in 1976 and graduated from Service High School in 1990. He worked at various places in the Anchorage area before marrying Jessica Clark and moving to Alabama. He then served as a Specialist in the Army. Their daughter Natasha was born in 1994 while in Alabama and he later returned to Anchorage after leaving the military. He settled in Girdwood and while working as a carpenter, volunteered as a ski instructor for Challenge Alaska. Michael lived in the Girdwood area since 2003. He loved his work helping the disabled of all ages learn to ski and enjoy the long winter on the slopes.

He is survived by his daughter, Natasha Henman; his mother, Alejandra "Sandy" Russell and father Michael B. Henman; his three sisters, Mary "Gina" Hutchins, Michele Carroll, and Amanda Russell; as well as his brother, Matthew Russell and many wonderful friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents on both sides, aunt Regina, uncle Ramon, and uncle Jerry.

The family would like to give special thanks to the Adult Critical Care and Renal Care Units, Environmental Services, and Laundry Departments at Providence Hospital. As well as a huge thank you to the staffs at Challenge Alaska and Silvertip Grill for organizing and planning his celebration.

His unique personality and infectious smile will stay with his family and friends. His family encourages donations in his honor to Challenge Alaska in Girdwood to help support a cause that was very dear to him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 15, 2014 at 5:00 p.m. at the Challenge Alaska Chalet located on the Alyeska slopes.