Donald Orval (Don) Hendrickson was born June 26, 1931 in Brainerd, Minnesota, the youngest child of Elmer and Audrey (Herington) Hendrickson. When he was a young man, Don and his family moved to a farm near Mahnomen, Minnesota. It was in Mahnomen where Don met his wife and lifetime companion, the former LaVerne Finney. In 1952, Don enlisted and served four years in the US Navy. After his Navy days, Don attended school at Moorhead State University (Minnesota) and the University of Tennessee, earning Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Mathematics, respectively. He taught high school mathematics in Lisbon, North Dakota from 1959-1963 and Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin from 1964-1992. In 1993, Don and LaVerne retired to Mesa, Arizona where they have resided since. Don passed away on October 9, 2016 at the age of 85.
Don is survived by his wife LaVerne; one son, David (Patricia) of Garland, TX; two grandchildren, Andrew Thompson and Patrick Hendrickson; one sister, Ellen (George) Honek of Moorhead, MN; one brother, Gordon of Alexandria, MN; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Alfred Hendrickson and Kenneth (Bud) Hendrickson.
A memorial service with full military honors will be held on Saturday, October 15th, 2016, at 10:00 am in the Chapel building at Via Church, 740 North Power Road, Mesa, Arizona, 85206.
As an educator, Don had a heart for reaching students with the Gospel. He was a long-time supporter of the European university ministry of John and Kristen Koeshall. If you’d like to donate in Don’s memory, please visit: koeshall.com.
Uncle Don was a lovely man. He leaves a wonderful legacy. May LaVerne and David take great comfort in his love for them.
Trica,
My prayers, thoughts and heart are with you and your family.
Laverne, we are so sorry to hear about Don’s passing. Our deepest sympathy to you and the rest of the family. We will always remember Don’s kind and gentle smile and sweet spirit. Our prayers are with you.
Doug and Tina Freeberg
A wonderful friend and faithful servant of Christ. God bless you Laverne and may He cover you in His love.