Gary D. Henschen

Gary Donald Henschen, age 75, of Alhambra, IL, died Friday, January 30, 2026 at Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Mo.

He was born on December 16, 1950, in Highland, IL, the son of Donald and Vera Mae Henschen, nee Klueter.

On July 15, 1977, He married Sharon K. Bartels, in Hamel, IL. She preceded him in death on October 14, 1986.

On July 29, 1989, He married Cindy L Schuster in Alhambra, IL. She survives.

Gary was born in Highland, IL, and grew up on a farm in rural Alhambra. Attended Highland High School, graduating in 1969. He graduated from SIU Carbondale with a degree in Architectural technology. He then enlisted in the United States Air Force at age 20 in 1971. After basic training, he was sent to Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, CO. Assigned to the 43rd Tech Arcade Air Command at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, NV. 12 months later he transferred to 21 MMS Alaskan Air Command in Elmendorf, Alaska where he loaded planes with weapons. Two years later he went back to Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas for the remaining of his 4 years. He was discharged in July, 1975.

Upon his return to Alhambra, He worked for 25 years at Gehrig's Store, before moving to R. P. Lumber for 15 years. He retired in December 2016.

After retiring, he enjoyed his time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He loved everything outdoors. He served on the fire department for 23 years, he mowed and maintained the grounds at Alhambra Township Park, where he still helped when he could. Over 50 years of service, he planted over 300 trees. He was a member of Salem United Church of Christ, where he was secretary of Salem Cemetery Association Board. Serving on Township Board, and American Legion, Post 1147. He also had the privilege of going on the Land of the Lincoln Honor Flight Mission #75 on September 2025, with his son, Nick.

Survivors include:

Wife – Cindy Henschen, Alhambra, IL

Son – Nick (Anna) Henschen, Alhambra, IL

Son – Chad (Sarah) Schuster, Highland, IL

Daughter – Amy (Bain) Henschen, New Douglas, IL

Grandchildren- Raiden Evans, Brenna Bassett, Harper Henschen, Kade Henschen, & Boden Henschen

Sister – LuAnn (Gary) Boda, Alhambra, IL

Sister – Barb (Greg) Louden, Springfield, IL

Sister-in-Law -Joyce (Rich)Koenig, Cedar Hill, TN

Brother-in-Law – Steve (Alice) Bartels, Hamel, IL

Sister-in-Law - Karen (Steve) Maples, Fenton, MO

Sister-in-Law - Nancy (Tim) Stumpf, Edwardsville, IL

Sister-in-Law – Susi (Kenny) Miller, Edwardsville, IL

Brother-in-law – Joe (Deanna) Dauderman, Alhambra, IL

Many nieces, nephews, and cousins

He is preceded in death by

Wife- Sharon Henschen

Parents- Donald and Vera Mae Henschen

In-Laws – Earl & Gladys Bartels, Don Wilkening

In-Laws – Robert & Carol Dauderman

Grandparents - Dewey & Alma Henschen

Grandparents – J Henry & Rosa Klueter

Arrangements are being handled by Dauderman Mortuary in Alhambra, IL.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Salem United Church of Christ in Alhambra, IL and from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Salem United Church of Christ in Alhambra, IL.

Funeral Service will be at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Salem United Church of Christ in Alhambra, IL with Pastor John Mindrup, officiating.

Interment will be at Salem Cemetery in Alhambra, IL.

Memorials can be made to Alhambra Township Park or Salem United Church of Christ.