John C. Henning

John C. Henning exceeded every measure of a man. In his 90 years, he accomplished more than most dream of achieving and he did it with quiet humility, kindness, and the sort of gentle strength that seems impossible unless you have been blessed to know him. Above all his accomplishments and contributions to the communities he called home, he was a devoted husband of nearly 70 years and a compassionate father.

John, 90, of Getzville, New York, passed away Sunday, November 23, 2025, surrounded by his wife, eight surviving children and the love of his large extended family.

Born on August 16, 1935, in Newfane, NY, he was the son of John R. and Margaret (Kinzly) Henning.

John was raised in Newfane, later raising his own family there, and graduated from Newfane High School before attending Syracuse University's School of Forestry. He grew up with deep roots in his hometown community and carried those values of hard work, equality and loyalty throughout his life.

Following his education, John joined the family business, Newfane Lumber Company, becoming the third-generation owner. He dedicated his career to the lumber industry, serving actively within the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association, including as a member of its Board of Directors and as President. His passion for woodworking continued throughout his life and he dedicated countless hours to hand crafting beautiful pieces for his children and grandchildren that will be forever cherished.

John married the love of his life, Donna Andrews, with whom he shared a long and loving marriage. Together they raised a large and close-knit family. He is survived by his wife, Donna, and their children: Bruce (Sherri) Henning, Lynne (Patrick) Kenealy, Lisa (Doug) Lewis, James Henning, Paul (Lisa) Henning, Gary (Penny) Henning, Tracey (Jeff) Messer, and Karen (Brad) Georgal.

He was predeceased by his son, the late John (Deonne) Henning, and by his sister, the late Barbara Rosso.

John leaves behind 24 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

John lived a life rich with curiosity, craftsmanship, and adventure. An avid birdwatcher, he was especially proud of his involvement in the Myakka River State Park eagle project, making regular hikes to observe and track an eagle family's nesting activity. He and Donna traveled extensively-visiting all 50 states and all seven continents-and enjoyed years of camping and RV trips together across North America.

John loved jazz music, fine wine, and a good beer. During his "lumber mill years," he was also part of the Tuscarora Club in Lockport and in his later years, enjoyed many hours on the golf course with Donna.

He also gave generously of his time, serving as a Little Loop football coach, a Little League baseball coach, and volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. He and Donna sponsored two young girls from abroad, a commitment that reflected John's deep sense of compassion and community. During his years running the lumber mill, John also fought valiantly for inclusion and equality among his workforce-something that was unprecedented at the time.

After retiring, John and Donna moved to Florida before eventually settling in Tennessee, where he fulfilled his dream of living in the Smoky Mountains.

John will be remembered for his steady wisdom, his craftsmanship, his kindness, and his unwavering devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in the people he loved, the generations he shaped, and the many lives he touched along the way. His family will proudly carry his name and honor forward for generations to come.

Calling hours will be held at RHONEY FUNERAL HOME, 5893 Hoover Rd., SANBORN, NY 14132, on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 4-6PM, where a Memorial Service will follow.

Burial will take place at Cold Springs Cemetery.