John Michael Hennike

J Michael Hennike "Mike" passed away on October 16, 2025 at the age at 83 comforted by his family and his beloved dog "Henry". Mike

was preceded in death by the love of his life Valerie Anne Hennike.

Mike had a long and distinguished career serving the people of NC in the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Mental

Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services. He began his career in the Division as a Compliance Surveyor assuring that the Developmental Centers in NC met Federal Standards of Care. In 1978, Mike was appointed CEO of Murdoch Center, a Regional Developmental Center serving both adults and children with Developmental Disabilities. During his tenure he oversaw significant

improvement in the care and treatment of the individuals living at the Center as well as major improvements in the environment and

physical plant. Through his leadership the Center achieved full accreditation as an Intermediate Care Facility and maintained that

accreditation throughout his tenure.

Mike later served as Chief Of Operated Services having management oversight responsibilities for all of NC's Psychiatric Hospitals,

Regional Developmental Centers, and Substance Abuse Facilities.

In 2007, Mike retired but later returned to State Service as Special Assistant to the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human

Services. In 2009, he was named CEO of Central Regional Hospital, NC's newest Psychiatric Facility in Butner, NC. Mike was tasked with

the closure of Dorothea Dix Hospital in Raleigh, NC and John Umstead Hospital in Butner, NC which included transitioning patients and staff to the new Central Regional Hospital. In addition he was charged with improving the care and treatment for all patients.

Mike retired from State Service November 30, 2014 to enjoy life in the mountains with his wife Valerie. Mike left a legacy of improving the

lives of NC citizens with developmental disabilities and mental illness. He was a forward thinking leader and manager. He encouraged all

who worked for him to be "right minded" in their thinking and decision making as well as their approach to service delivery.

In his retirement Mike enjoyed traveling with his wife Valerie, collecting antiques, cooking gourmet meals, and sports cars. He was

a lover of the Blood Hound Breed of dogs and especially loved his Blood Hound "Henry".

Mike was honored with the naming of the Administration Building at Murdoch Center after him. In addition, the Courtyard at Central

Regional Hospital was dedicated in his name. His innovative leadership and dedication was recognized by the Governor of NC

when he was awarded The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest honor that can be bestowed on a NC citizen.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, October 22, 2025 in the chapel of Forest Lawn Funeral Home, with Kelven Keraga officiating. Mike will be laid to rest beside his beloved Valerie in Forest Lawn Memorial Park following the services.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services Wednesday at the funeral home.