William C. Hendrickson

Edina - Age 77, of Edina, MN.

Bill was born on February 3, 1948 (Bill's father was born February 2) and died suddenly on his mother's birthday, Wednesday, November 5, 2025, of Cardiac Arrest.

Bill attended Edison High School and later graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Spanish major. He started his Spanish classes when he was in grade school.

He continued his interest in languages by studying French, Italian and eventually German...he said: 'the most difficult'. These languages became handy as he travelled the world. Especially his French as he has had a house in the south of France for about 30 years. Bill also wintered in Palm Springs, California.

Bill worked at the University of Minnesota for 43 years as a Creative Manager in the College of Continuing Education Marketing. He was very fond of his staff.

After many visits to kitchens in Paris and attending a French language and cooking school, La Ferme, in La Petite Auguille, France and, then, in Martinique, Bill was a trained French cook.

He enjoyed cooking and traveling, including several cruises and crossings. Bill collected cookbooks, Eiffel towers and candle snuffers. Bill was also an avid concert goer, especially enjoying the Minnesota Orchestra, choral and organ concerts and opera performances in Minnesota, at the Des Moines Metro Opera and in Europe.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents Richard and Eva Hendrickson.

He is survived by his life-partner of 55 years, Steve Gentile; cousins, Susan, Debbie, Becky and Bob.

Bill often said "What a wonderful, amazing life I had. We give thanks" He will be greatly missed by many friends both here and abroad.

Private Services and Interment.

Memorials in Bill's name are preferred to The Des Moines Metro Opera, The Minnesota Orchestra or The Guthrie Theater.

www.Washburn-McReavy.com

Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

West 50th St. & Hwy 100