Robert Earl-Powell Henning

Robert Earl-Powell Henning, age 62, passed away on March 28, 2026 after facing health challenges over the past year and experiencing a sudden decline in January. He was born on March 4, 1964 in Illinois.

Robert devoted his life to his love of the written word and to the students he taught. He began his career at Catholic Central High School, where he taught from 1989 to 1999, before joining the English department at Hudsonville High School. There, he furthered his involvement by serving as advisor to the yearbook and school newspaper. His classroom reflected who he was, filled with books, lined with DC Comics posters, and softened by well-worn couches. He left a lasting impression on his students through his passion for literature and his unmistakable sense of humor.

Outside the classroom, Robert liked to keep busy. He was a dedicated member of the Caledonia Library and later served as President of the Caledonia Friends of the Library. During the summer months, he could often be found curating his comic book collection and tending to his garden.

Robert is survived by his children, David Henning (Katie), Pamela Brown (Keegan), Bryce Henning (Emily Kreidler), and Kyle Henning; his granddaughter, Meadow Henning; and his former spouse of 20 years, Elizabeth Groot. He is also survived by his siblings, Jodie Rosario, Barb Henning, Trina Sullivan, and Kim Penrod; his stepmother, Kathy Powell; his aunt, Janet Nigrelli; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Aidan Henning; his parents, Susan Liesveld and Robert L. Powell, and step father Lester Henning; and his grandparents, Vern and Margaret Liesveld.

Visitation Details

Friends and family are invited to share memories on Saturday, April 11, from 12pm to 3pm at the VanderLaan Funeral Home, 4917 32nd Avenue, Hudsonville, MI 49426.

Memorial Donations

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Caledonia Friends of the Library. Robert would be deeply honored to have his love of reading carried on through the library that meant so much to him.

Please mail donations to:

Caledonia Friends of the Library

Attn: Mary Brinks

6260 92nd Street

Caledonia, MI 49316