Donald George Hendricks

Lieutenant Colonel Donald George Hendricks, United States Air Force (retired), age 97 of Anderson, SC and formerly of Arden, NC, died Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

Don proudly answered the call to duty during World War II and served twice during the Korean conflict. A gifted aviator, he flew many types of aircraft and served with distinction as a pilot, navigator-bombardier, and flight instructor. His dedication to excellence and mentorship shaped countless lives, both in uniform and beyond. He later retired after a long and honorable military career.

While stationed in Enid, Oklahoma, Don met the love of his life, Donna Fender, who would become his devoted wife and lifelong partner. Together, they shared a marriage rooted in faith, mutual respect, and service. Donna is also a proud United States Air Force veteran, and their shared commitment to country and family was a cornerstone of their life together.

Don was a lifelong learner and engineer at heart, graduating from the University of Illinois with a degree in aeronautical engineering. He also earned a Masters degree in statistics from Case Western Reserve University. His sharp mind was matched by a generous spirit, and he remained active in service well into retirement. He faithfully served on the board of The Arc in Asheville, North Carolina, and was deeply involved at St. Barnabas Catholic Church in Arden, where he served as church business manager, offering his time and talents to support the Church he loved. Above all, Don was a man of deep faith. He lived his life trusting in God's providence, striving to love others through service, humility, and quiet strength. His example leaves a lasting legacy of integrity, devotion, and grace.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Donna Fender Hendricks; his children, Deborah Buckner (Mark), Joseph Hendricks (Barbara), Denise Hendricks, and Dolores Hoffman (Chris); six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Barbara Tillich and Sue Augustyn. He was preceded in death by his brother, Edward Hendricks.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, February 16, at Sullivan-King Mortuary in Anderson, SC. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Anderson, SC. Burial will follow with full military honors at 1:00 p.m. at M.J. "Dolly" Cooper Veterans Cemetery.

A memorial Mass celebrating his life will also be held at Saint Barnabas in Arden, NC on March 21, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. followed by a reception at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Arc of Buncombe County, PO Box 1365, Asheville, NC 28802.

Though we mourn his passing, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and give thanks to God for the gift of Donald's long, faithful, and well-lived life.