Richard Harold Henze

Richard Harold Henze, 85 of Evansville, IN passed away on August 4, 2025 at his home on the west side of Evansville after a long battle with Parkinson's.

He was born December 13, 1939 to the late Carl and Mildred (Koch) Henze. Richard began his formal career teaching English literature at the University of Kentucky in 1965 after working throughout his high school and college years to save funds. He and his wife, Sally moved to Ft. Collins, CO where he was a Professor in the English department at Colorado State University, teaching Shakespeare and Greek Mythology. During that period of time, they enjoyed traveling and purchasing farms for the future. Their favorite location was a large farm In Edina, Missouri where they planned to eventually retire. Sally, however, died in an auto accident in 2004 and that dream never materialized. He retired from Colorado State where he taught for many years. When his health began to decline and after Parkinson's worsened, he moved back to Evansville. Richard was admired by his students - many posting remarks such as "If you want a prof who knows his material, this is your man. Interesting and entertaining lecturer with high expectations." "Take this guy before you graduate. Lectures are hilarious, although sometimes hard to relate to the material. But it always comes back and works," and more. In 1971, Richard had an article published in the Shakespeare Quarterly.

Richard is survived by a brother Ronald, sisters Susan Raber and Mary Ellen Damm, cousins, nieces and nephews. Very involved in Richard's care, niece Jennifer Hertel and nephew Ralph Raber were there for him throughout his days in Evansville. The family also would like to thank Heart to Heart Hospice for their excellent care of Richard during his illness here.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Sally (Ward) Henze; his parents Carl and Mildred Henze; and a brother Randall Henze.

Richard attended Evansville College. He received his Ph.D In English Literature from the University of Nebraska after which he taught at the University of Kentucky and then Colorado State University. Richard's greatest passion was his family and his farms. Nothing made him happier than being in the seat of his tractor in Missouri.

A celebration of Richard's life will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, August 7 2025 at Browning Funeral Home with Pastor Terry Farmer officiating. Burial will be in New Boston, IN for burial next to his beloved Sally.

Friends may visit from 9:00 am until service time on Thursday, August 7 2025 at Browning Funeral Home.

Contributions may be made to Vanderburgh Humane Society, 400 Millner Industrial Drive, Evansville, IN 47710 or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 9045 River Road, Suite 175, Indianapolis, IN 46240.