Howard Gerald Hendrickson

Mr. Howard Gerald "Jerry" Hendrickson, age 93, of California, Mo., passed away Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Capital Region Medical Center.

Jerry was born on February 15, 1932, in Jefferson City, Mo., a son of the late Herbert F. and Emma Loraine (Doss) Hendrickson. He grew up in Centertown, Mo., and was a member of the last graduating class at Centertown High School in 1950. Following graduation, Jerry served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. His service included a deployment to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) – he received honorable discharge in 1954.

Jerry was married on October 5, 1952, to Arlene Naomi Osick at Centertown Baptist Church. They were blessed with 67 years of marriage until Arlene's passing on January 15, 2020.

After his military service, Jerry entered a career in the construction industry until 1980 when he became co-founder of Modern Interiors. His skill set allowed him to construct, remodel, and aid in the upkeep of homes, businesses, and churches around mid-Missouri. After hanging up his tool belt, Jerry worked for the Department of Social Services in General Services as a Lease Coordinator until his retirement in 1994.

A man of great faith, Jerry was a current member of First Baptist Church in Jefferson City and a former member and deacon of Centertown Baptist Church. He was a faithful servant to his church communities, leading by example and contributing when possible. He was generous with his time and resources and enjoyed giving to various charities.

An avid fisherman, Jerry was most at peace when he was near the water, with a rod in hand. He had a fondness for crappie fishing and spent the month of April each year at his favorite fishing hole at the Lake of the Ozarks, reeling in the best of the best. When his boys were young, family camping trips were favorite moments that the whole family cherished.

In their retirement, Jerry and Arlene embraced the joy of travel, embarking on adventures across the country and joining bus tours with various travel groups. From the East Coast to the West and everywhere in between, they created lasting memories and found joy simply in being together. Jerry especially enjoyed trips to North Dakota, sharing family stories with relatives near and far.

Jerry was the epitome of a true gentleman-always meticulous in every aspect of his life, from his neatly pressed attire to the care he gave his yard and vehicles. His well-mannered nature and respectful demeanor reflected his kind and gracious heart. Above all, his greatest joy came from the relationships he held dearest-his children, grandchildren, and lifelong friends. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, warmth, and unwavering love for those who meant the most to him.

He is survived by his sons, Darrell Hendrickson (Rochelle) of California, Mo., and Keith Hendrickson (Jo Ann) of Jamestown, Mo.; grandchildren, Carla Gilzow (Josh) of Ashland, Mo., and Matt Hendrickson (Brooke) of Boonville, Mo.; step-grandson, Brandon Paneitz of Jefferson City, Mo.; granddaughter-in-law, Gwendolyn Hendrickson of Warrensburg, Mo.; great-granddaughter, Audrey Gilzow of Ashland, Mo.; and special friend, Carol Bolin of Jefferson City, Mo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Emma; his sister, Elyda "Kitty" Clarke (Charles), and grandson, Craig Hendrickson.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Friday, July 25, 2025, at Freeman Mortuary.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Friday, July 25, 2025, in the Freeman Chapel with the Reverend John Gorham officiating. Graveside services with military honors will follow at Centertown Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Centertown Cemetery Fund or a charity of the donor's choice.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.