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Richard Henke Obituary
Richard "Dick" Henke
May 9, 1932 - October 18, 2023
Richard "Dick" Henke, born on May 9, 1932, in Moline, IL, left an incredible mark during his 91 years and concluded his journey on October 18, 2023.
The son of Bill and Mary Ethel Henke, and sibling to older brother, Donald Curtis Henke, Dick's early passion for football shaped his years at Rock Island High School and led him to the University of Denver on a football scholarship. Majoring in finance and banking, he became a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon and encountered the love of his life, Elaine Graham. Their union was sealed in 1953, and endured for an admirable 66 years until Elaine's passing in 2019. Dick served in the army, stationed at Ft. Lewis, WA, before raising a family with two children, Mark Stephen Henke and Dana Lyn Carlisle. His legacy extends to four cherished grandchildren: Stephen, Andrew, and Alex Carlisle, and Melissa Henke.
In partnership with Bob Green, Dick co-founded Pipe Valve and Fitting Co. in 1962, a testament to his enduring entrepreneurial spirit. Dick was also avid golfer and member of the Denver Athletic Club and Pinehurst Country Club. He found joy on the greens throughout his adult life. His commitment to community extended to Arvada Covenant Church, where he and Elaine were active members. Travel was another cherished aspect of their life, exploring Spain, England, France, Eleuthera, and Alaska. Together with close friends Frank and Rose Edwards, they embarked on journeys to visit presidential libraries across the nation.
Dick Henke's warm and welcoming nature endeared him to all he encountered, a sentiment underscored by his commitment to maintaining connections. He never missed a high school reunion, attending his 72nd in Rock Island in 2021.
Preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elaine; son, Mark; and brother, Donald; and survived by his grandchildren; daughter, Dana; and son-in-law, Vance Carlisle. Dick Henke's vibrant legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Funeral service will be October 31, 2023, at Arvada Covenant Church at 10:00 a.m., followed by burial at Ft. Logan at 12:30 p.m., followed by a time of fellowship at his house.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to For The Children (Royal Family Kids Camp).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Henke
Sponsored by Horan & McConaty Funeral Service & Cremation - Northwest/Arvada.
2 Entries
Janice Appuglise
October 31, 2023
I was very sorry to hear about Dicks passing. He was one of the nicest and most sincere person I have ever met! Always so happy to see you. He was extremely generous too. He was very close friends with my in-laws, Rich and Esther Appuglise. We enjoyed many trips to Vegas with the DU group and the Henkes. He will be missed!
Rod Schuster
October 25, 2023
I was saddened to hear of Dick's passing. Dick was a good friend and DU football teamate of my father Jack Schuster and golf buddies for many years at Park Hill in Denver. I was privelaged to have been invited to play with them as a filler on many Saturday's and always enjoyed the lively and entertaining humor.
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Horan & McConaty Funeral Service & Cremation - Northwest/Arvada7577 W. 80th Avenue, Arvada, CO 80003
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